Dental Wax Is Vital When You Get New Metal Braces

Braces have a lot of benefits. They can change a patient’s life, improve oral health, and improve how people view themselves. It’s important for anyone getting braces to make sure you are also using wax on your braces if they bother you while you are getting used to them.

Understanding Dental Wax, and How to Use It

Dental wax is most commonly made from beeswax, carnauba, or even paraffin wax. It is solid when it is at room temperature. It is usually flavorless; however, you can find some flavored options, like cherry, bubblegum, and mint. The wax is made to be almost clear so that it’s unnoticeable, and it’s safe to swallow in case of accidental ingestion.

Dental wax is easy to use:

• Figure out which bracket is causing your pain.
• Dry the area off thoroughly.
• Roll a small bit of wax between your fingers.
• Push the wax over the bracket or wire.

It should form a cushion to protect the delicate tissues inside your mouth within seconds. Once the wax is in place, your abrasions will have an opportunity to heal. Then you apply the wax as needed to protect irritated areas.

After a short time, the soft tissue in your mouth will toughen, and you will need the wax less and less.

Why Dental Wax Is Important for Braces

These metal newcomers to your mouth can sometimes irritate tissues due to how delicate those areas are. You may notice an increase in sensitivity in different areas of your mouth during the first 2–3 weeks of orthodontic treatment.

By using dental wax, you have an ally that helps prevent injury as your tissues adjust to the new textures in and around your mouth. Plus, wax can also help if you ever happen to chip or break a tooth.

Having dental wax is vital when you have braces because it helps the pain in your mouth. If you have any questions about dental wax or braces in general, give our orthodontists a call.