How to Apply Dental Wax on Braces: A Comprehensive Guide

Dealing with braces can sometimes be uncomfortable. While they’re working hard to straighten your teeth, the brackets and wires can occasionally irritate your cheeks, lips, and tongue. Thankfully, dental wax provides a simple and effective solution to alleviate this discomfort. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using dental wax with braces, including why it’s essential, how to apply it correctly, tips for troubleshooting common issues, and other alternatives if wax isn’t your favorite.

Why Use Dental Wax with Braces?

Dental wax, also known as orthodontic wax, is a soft, pliable material designed to protect the soft tissues in your mouth from the sharp edges and protruding parts of your braces. Here’s a detailed look at why it’s so beneficial:

* **Protection from Irritation:** Braces consist of brackets, wires, and bands that can rub against the delicate tissues inside your mouth. This friction can lead to sores, ulcers, and general discomfort. Dental wax acts as a barrier, preventing direct contact between the braces and your soft tissues.
* **Pain Relief:** By cushioning the area, dental wax reduces pain caused by the constant rubbing. This is especially helpful during the initial adjustment period when your mouth is getting used to the braces or after adjustments when the wires are tightened.
* **Promotes Healing:** If you already have sores or ulcers, dental wax can protect them from further irritation, allowing them to heal faster. The wax creates a clean and moist environment, which is conducive to healing.
* **Prevents New Sores:** Using dental wax proactively can prevent new sores from forming. By anticipating areas where your braces are likely to cause irritation, you can apply wax before the discomfort even starts.
* **Comfort During Eating and Speaking:** Eating and speaking can become painful when your braces are irritating your mouth. Dental wax can provide immediate relief, making these activities more comfortable.

What You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the necessary supplies:

* **Dental Wax:** You can find dental wax at most drugstores or pharmacies. It usually comes in a small container or case. Look for orthodontic wax specifically, as it’s designed for use with braces.
* **Mirror:** A mirror is essential for seeing the areas where you need to apply the wax. A handheld mirror or your bathroom mirror will work.
* **Clean Hands:** Make sure your hands are thoroughly washed with soap and water to prevent introducing bacteria into your mouth.
* **Clean Toothbrush (Optional):** A clean, dry toothbrush can be helpful for drying the bracket before applying the wax.
* **Tissue or Paper Towel:** To dry the area of application.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply Dental Wax on Braces

Follow these detailed steps to properly apply dental wax and get the most relief:

Step 1: Wash Your Hands

Hygiene is crucial when dealing with anything inside your mouth. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. This will help prevent the transfer of bacteria to the sensitive tissues in your mouth.

Step 2: Identify the Irritating Area

Use a mirror to carefully examine your braces and identify the specific bracket or wire that is causing irritation. You might feel a sharp edge or notice redness or swelling in the area. Run your tongue gently over the braces to pinpoint the exact source of the discomfort. Sometimes, it’s not immediately obvious, so take your time and be thorough.

Step 3: Clean and Dry the Area

Before applying the wax, it’s essential to clean and dry the area around the irritating bracket or wire. This helps the wax adhere better and prevents it from falling off easily. Use a clean, dry toothbrush to gently brush the bracket and remove any food particles or debris. Then, use a tissue or paper towel to thoroughly dry the bracket and the surrounding area. The drier the surface, the better the wax will stick.

Step 4: Prepare the Dental Wax

Open the container of dental wax and use your clean fingers to pinch off a small piece, about the size of a small pea. The amount of wax you need will depend on the size of the bracket and the area you need to cover. It’s better to start with a smaller piece and add more if necessary.

Step 5: Soften and Shape the Wax

Roll the piece of wax between your fingers to soften it and make it more pliable. The warmth from your fingers will make the wax easier to mold and shape. Continue rolling it until it forms a smooth, round ball. This will help it adhere better to the bracket.

Step 6: Apply the Wax

Using your finger, gently press the softened wax onto the irritating bracket or wire. Make sure to cover the entire area that is causing discomfort. Use enough pressure to ensure the wax sticks firmly to the braces, but be careful not to apply too much force, as this could dislodge the bracket. Mold the wax around the bracket so that it forms a smooth, protective barrier between the braces and your cheek, lip, or tongue.

Step 7: Check for Coverage

After applying the wax, use your tongue to gently feel the area. Make sure that the wax completely covers the irritating part of the braces and that there are no sharp edges exposed. If you can still feel the irritation, add more wax as needed. Repeat steps 4-6 until you achieve complete coverage and relief.

Step 8: Replace as Needed

Dental wax is not permanent and will eventually wear away or fall off, especially when eating or drinking. Check the wax periodically throughout the day and replace it as needed. It’s a good idea to replace the wax before meals to ensure it stays in place while you eat. Remove the old wax before applying new wax to keep the area clean and prevent buildup.

Tips for Applying Dental Wax

Here are some helpful tips to make the process even easier and more effective:

* **Keep Wax Handy:** Carry dental wax with you at all times, especially when you’re away from home. This way, you can quickly address any irritation that arises.
* **Apply Before Activities:** If you know certain activities, like eating or speaking for extended periods, tend to cause irritation, apply wax beforehand to prevent discomfort.
* **Dry the Area Thoroughly:** As mentioned earlier, a dry surface is essential for proper wax adhesion. Take the time to thoroughly dry the bracket before applying the wax.
* **Use Enough Wax:** Don’t be afraid to use a generous amount of wax to ensure complete coverage. It’s better to use too much than not enough.
* **Smooth the Edges:** After applying the wax, smooth the edges with your finger to prevent them from catching on your cheek or lip.
* **Replace After Meals:** Replace the wax after each meal to maintain a clean and protective barrier. Food particles can get trapped under the wax, leading to irritation and bacteria buildup.
* **Check Regularly:** Inspect the wax periodically to make sure it’s still in place and providing adequate coverage. Replace it as soon as you notice it starting to wear away or fall off.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best techniques, you might encounter some challenges when using dental wax. Here are some common issues and how to address them:

* **Wax Keeps Falling Off:**
* **Cause:** The most common reason for wax falling off is a wet surface. Make sure to thoroughly dry the bracket before applying the wax.
* **Solution:** Use a clean, dry toothbrush to brush the bracket and then dry it with a tissue or paper towel. You can also try using a cotton swab to absorb any excess moisture.
* **Wax Doesn’t Stick:**
* **Cause:** The wax may not be soft enough. Cold wax is less pliable and doesn’t adhere as well.
* **Solution:** Roll the wax between your fingers for a longer period to soften it and make it more sticky. The warmth from your fingers will help it mold better.
* **Wax Feels Too Bulky:**
* **Cause:** You might be using too much wax.
* **Solution:** Start with a smaller piece of wax and add more if needed. You can always remove excess wax, but it’s harder to add more once it’s already applied.
* **Wax Tastes Bad:**
* **Cause:** Some dental waxes have a slightly unpleasant taste.
* **Solution:** Try a different brand of dental wax. Some brands offer flavored wax, such as mint or cherry, which can be more palatable. Alternatively, you can look for unflavored wax.
* **Sores Aren’t Healing:**
* **Cause:** The wax might not be providing adequate protection, or there may be an underlying issue.
* **Solution:** Make sure the wax completely covers the irritating area. If the sores persist or worsen, consult your orthodontist. They may need to adjust your braces or recommend a different treatment.

Alternatives to Dental Wax

While dental wax is a popular and effective solution, some people find it uncomfortable or inconvenient to use. Here are some alternatives you can consider:

* **Silicone Orthodontic Relief:** Silicone products designed specifically for braces are available. These are usually pre-shaped and can be easier to apply than wax. They also tend to last longer and are more resistant to moisture.
* **GUM Advanced Ortho Gel:** This gel creates a protective barrier on the gums and soft tissues, providing relief from irritation. It’s easy to apply and can be used in conjunction with wax or as a standalone solution.
* **Mouthwash for Sores:** Rinsing with a saltwater solution or an antiseptic mouthwash can help soothe and heal sores caused by braces. Look for mouthwashes that contain ingredients like chlorhexidine or benzydamine.
* **Orthodontic Appliances:** In some cases, your orthodontist may be able to adjust your braces to reduce irritation. They can file down sharp edges, reposition brackets, or use different types of wires.
* **Orabase:** This over-the-counter medication forms a protective layer over sores and ulcers in the mouth, promoting healing and providing pain relief. It’s available in a gel or paste form and can be applied directly to the affected area.

When to See Your Orthodontist

While dental wax and other remedies can provide relief from minor irritation, it’s essential to know when to seek professional help. Contact your orthodontist if:

* **You have severe pain that doesn’t improve with wax or other remedies.**
* **You develop large or persistent sores or ulcers.**
* **Your braces are broken or damaged.**
* **A wire is poking you and you can’t resolve it with wax.**
* **You notice signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pus.**
* **You have difficulty eating or speaking due to the pain.**

Your orthodontist can properly diagnose the issue and provide the appropriate treatment to ensure your braces remain comfortable and effective.

Conclusion

Applying dental wax on braces is a simple yet crucial skill for anyone undergoing orthodontic treatment. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively protect your mouth from irritation, relieve pain, and promote healing. Remember to maintain good oral hygiene, replace the wax regularly, and consult your orthodontist if you experience any persistent issues. With proper care and attention, you can navigate your braces journey with greater comfort and confidence, ultimately achieving the smile you’ve always wanted. Dental wax is your friend – use it! It’s a small addition to your daily routine that makes a HUGE difference in comfort and overall oral health during your orthodontic treatment.