When getting braces, it’s common to experience discomfort or irritation due to the brackets and wires rubbing against the inner cheeks and lips. To help alleviate this discomfort, many orthodontists recommend using dental wax. Dental wax can provide a protective barrier between your braces and sensitive oral tissues, preventing irritation and allowing your mouth to heal. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to properly use wax for braces.
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before starting, make sure you have all the necessary supplies on hand. You will need dental wax, which is typically provided by your orthodontist or can be purchased at a pharmacy or online. You may also want to have a clean pair of tweezers on hand to help mold the wax into the desired shape.
Step 2: Clean Your Braces
Before applying wax, it’s important to ensure that your braces are clean. Brush your teeth and braces thoroughly to remove any food particles or debris that may be contributing to irritation.
Step 3: Dry the Area
Using a clean tissue or cotton swab, dry the area around the bracket or wire that is causing irritation. This will help the wax adhere better and provide longer-lasting relief.
Step 4: Shape the Wax
Take a small piece of dental wax and roll it between your fingers to soften it. Once the wax is pliable, mold it into a small ball or strip that is slightly larger than the area of irritation.
Step 5: Apply the Wax
Using your fingers or tweezers, carefully place the wax over the bracket or wire that is causing discomfort. Press the wax firmly against the braces to ensure it stays in place.
Step 6: Check for Comfort
Once the wax is in place, gently bite down to ensure that it provides a smooth surface and does not interfere with your bite. If you feel any discomfort or that the wax is too bulky, remove it and start the shaping and application process again.
Step 7: Reapply as Needed
Dental wax is not permanent and may need to be reapplied throughout the day as it wears down or if you eat. Be sure to remove and replace the wax as needed to maintain comfort and protection for your oral tissues.
Step 8: Clean Your Braces
Before going to bed, remove any remaining wax and brush your teeth and braces thoroughly to prevent buildup of bacteria or plaque.
Tips for Using Dental Wax:
– If you find that the wax is difficult to remove, try using an interdental brush or floss to gently loosen it from the braces.
– Avoid chewing gum or eating sticky foods while wearing dental wax, as this can cause the wax to become dislodged.
– If you experience persistent irritation or discomfort despite using dental wax, be sure to contact your orthodontist for further evaluation.
In conclusion, dental wax can be a valuable tool for managing discomfort and irritation caused by braces. By following these simple steps and tips, you can effectively use wax to protect your oral tissues and make the orthodontic experience more comfortable. Remember to communicate with your orthodontist if you have any concerns or ongoing issues with your braces.