How to Use Dental Wax: A Complete Guide for Braces and Oral Care

You know that, sometimes, what hurts you at first helps you become stronger later.

This is something that may occur when you wear metal braces as an orthodontic treatment to align your jaws and your lips are constantly rubbed and the whole inside of your mouth is scratched, thus making you feel like you want to weep because of so much discomfort. That is why dental wax was invented.

Dental wax is one of the best ways for you to get rid of the pain caused by braces, which happens to be especially annoying at the initial stages when the attaching materials can irritate the inner cheeks. It is a coat that protects from contact and is responsible for preventing soreness and friction.

If you are thinking about having braces and want to protect yourself from the irritation or discomfort this blog will be helpful for you. We have covered all the essential details you need to know about dental wax.

What Is Dental Wax?

Braces wax is also called dental wax or orthodontic wax. It helps in reducing the severe pain and irritation that occurs when the metal part of the braces rubs with the mouth. The process involves forming a flexible layer of protection around the inner tissue of your mouth to prevent it from being in contact with braces.

They are made from natural ingredients such as beeswax or petroleum-based wax, and they come in small, user-friendly strips that can be easily applied without any trouble at all.

According to the Canadian Association of Orthodontists ,in case of accidentally swallowing a little, when a patient might ingest some quantity of substance while talking or eating, it does not cause any damage or harm.

Why To Use Dental Wax?

Braces wax is a product that greatly improves your overall orthodontic treatment experience. Here are some benefits that help you understand why you need to use it:

Prevent Injury

Regarding the fact that braces may potentially create some redness and scratch the gums by rubbing against them, it is of no surprise. Thus, what can you do to prevent this?.

Applying a coat of wax on the wires forms a layer that separates the brace wires from your mouth. In this way, it lessens the suffering and the pain caused because of wearing braces too long.

Heals Mouth Sores

The issue of mouth sores is quite common among people who wear braces, which is painful, annoying and has a lengthy healing process. It might be even more challenging for patients who must wear braces and deal with the sores.

Orthodontic wax is the product that solves this problem! It creates a protection layer between the braces and the gums, thus it reduces any possible irritation and wounds heal faster.

Eases Adjustments

Another benefit of dental wax is that it helps in the process by cushioning your cheek to reduce the pressure when braces are getting tightened. It protects the tender area to help reduce pain during orthodontic adjustments.

Improves Speech

Wax stops the braces from limiting the movement of your tongue which leads to speech quality. It is responsible for the formation of a smooth surface and friction reduction, therefore, makes speaking more natural.

Types Of Dental Waxes

Dental wax is available in a wide range of options that can cater to individual whims and needs:

Unscented and Unflavored Wax: Intended for those who are already allergic to or sensitive to such aroma and taste, bringing comfort through no added scents, or flavors.
Flavored Wax: It is available in different flavors, which are better for those children who wear braces all night long or just don’t like the idea of wearing braces.
Silicone-Based Wax: It is more durable and resistant to heat and is perfect for people that like to engage in physical activities and need protection for a prolonged time.

How To Apply Dental Wax?

It is simple and easy to use dental or braces wax. Here we are describing easy steps that help you understand how you can apply it:

Clean Your Hands and Braces: Before you touch your braces wash your hands and make sure that your braces are also clean before application of wax.
Take out a Small Amount: Take a pea-sized piece of wax.
Soften the Wax: Hold the wax between your fingers and move it back and forth, let it become soft and moldable.
Apply to the Braces: Press the wax down in the place where you are feeling soreness, then apply it evenly over the surface to form a protective layer.
Remove and Reapply as Needed: The wax can last all day, but take it out before you eat or brush your teeth. If needed, apply it again for sustained relief.

How To Remove Dental Wax?

Removal of dental wax is as necessary as applying it correctly, so here we are describing how you can remove it properly:

Wash your hands before touching your teeth.
You can use your fingers or a toothpick to peel off the wax. Do not use a sharp object, as it can cause injury.
Brush your teeth correctly so that the wax residues are obliterated. This also prevents plaque buildup in the area where you applied wax.

When To Use Dental Wax?

You can use dental wax in the following situations:

When your braces are newly fitted: The first days after you get braces might be very painful. The wax can help you deal with it better.
A Bracket is causing discomfort: When any part of your bracket or wire scratches your lips, cheeks, or gums, you can use wax to cover the sharp corners causing the pain.
Sores Or Ulcers Develop Due To Friction: When sores or ulcers develop because of friction, protecting these areas with wax makes them heal faster.
A Pop Out Wire Poking your Mouth: A wire that has come loose can be very bothersome. Wax helps to temporarily seal the area until you see the orthodontist.
When Waiting for an Orthodontic to Fix a Broken bracket: If you are waiting for an orthodontic appointment to mend a loose or broken bracket, you risk the chance of having bad spots accompanied by rough edges. Wax can be really helpful to avoid them from damaging your mouth.

Tips For Using A Dental Wax Effectively

Here are some essential tips that you must consider to apply dental wax properly:

The better adhesion will be achieved if wax is applied on dry surfaces all the time.
Maintain hygiene regularly along with the replacement of the wax to get rid of the buildup of bacteria.
Get a small pack of wax whenever you go out for unexpected events.
Put wax before the discomfort becomes more serious which will help you to avoid mouth sores.
Keeping wax in a cool and dry place is necessary not only to prevent it from softening but also from becoming too sticky
If using wax is not helpful, and you still have irritation, ask your orthodontist to check if the braces need to be adjusted.

Can You Eat With A Dental Wax On?

Although it is safe to ingest dental wax unintentionally, keep in mind that it is better to take it out prior to eating. Initially, substances like food particles may get stuck to the wax, which will eventually reduce its effectiveness and cause the wax to be more difficult to scrub out. Although getting wax on your teeth may cause some discomfort while you are eating it is always better to put on fresh wax between your meals.

Final Words – Dental Wax

Dental wax is a tool that is both simple and crucial for anyone with braces. It relieves irritation, prevents sores, and makes the treatment of the orthodontist more convenient. Moreover, it minimizes pain and injuries and safeguard your mouth but you must know the right techniques for applying, removing, and using the wax effectively.

The dental wax is a really fast and good way to deal with the new braces, the loose wires, or if you want some more protection, Always keep up with your oral hygiene and change the wax as soon as necessary to avoid being irritated by braces. If it continues, your orthodontist can be the one to seek help from for the realignment.