When starting orthodontic treatment, the initial days often introduce discomfort as the mouth adjusts to the hardware. Braces, consisting of metal brackets and wires, apply forces to shift teeth into correct positions. While this process is beneficial, it commonly leads to temporary soreness and irritation in the soft tissues of the mouth. Orthodontic wax is the most widely recommended solution to alleviate this immediate, localized discomfort.
Understanding the Source of Braces Irritation
The discomfort associated with braces stems from two causes: pressure and friction. Pressure pain originates from the biological process of teeth moving through the jawbone, typically felt as a dull ache after initial placement or a wire adjustment. This pain affects the teeth and is not addressed by external barriers like wax.
Friction or soreness is the type of pain wax is designed to manage. Metal brackets, protruding wires, and hooks for elastic bands create rough spots inside the mouth. These surfaces repeatedly rub against delicate soft tissues, including the inner cheeks, lips, and tongue. This constant friction can lead to the formation of small, painful sores or ulcers.
The Protective Function of Orthodontic Wax
Orthodontic wax functions as a simple, physical barrier that eliminates direct contact between the abrasive hardware and sensitive mouth tissues. When applied, the soft, pliable material molds over sharp edges or wire ends, creating a smooth surface. This shields the cheeks and lips from further irritation, allowing existing sores to begin healing.
The wax typically consists of medical-grade ingredients like carnauba wax, beeswax, or paraffin wax. These materials are solid at room temperature but become malleable when warmed between the fingers, allowing for easy shaping and adherence to the dry appliance. Because the wax is food-grade, it is safe if small pieces are accidentally swallowed. By creating this cushioning layer, the wax immediately reduces friction and provides localized relief during the adjustment period.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Wax
Effective application of the wax requires proper preparation to ensure the material adheres securely to the metal. First, locate the specific bracket or wire causing irritation and ensure your hands are clean. The area of the braces where the wax will be placed must then be completely dried using a clean cotton swab or tissue, as wax will not stick reliably to a wet surface.
Next, pinch off a small piece of wax, roughly the size of a pea, and roll it between your thumb and forefinger for several seconds. Warming the wax in this manner softens it and makes it more pliable, which improves its ability to stick to the metal. Press the softened ball firmly onto the offending hardware and gently flatten it to cover the entire irritating surface. The finished application should look like a small, smooth bump separating the braces from the soft tissues.
Remove the wax before eating any meal, as food particles can become trapped beneath it and chewing can easily dislodge it. The wax must also be removed prior to brushing your teeth to ensure thorough cleaning of the brackets and wires. Reapply a fresh piece of wax after brushing or whenever the current piece feels dirty, loose, or has worn away.
Additional Methods for Managing Braces Discomfort
Orthodontic wax is highly effective for localized friction-related soreness, but it does not alleviate the general ache from the pressure of tooth movement. For this broader discomfort, strategies start with over-the-counter pain relievers. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, or pain relievers like acetaminophen, can be taken before or immediately after an adjustment appointment to manage the inflammatory response. Always follow the recommended dosage instructions.
Soothing Sores and Inflammation
Sores and minor cuts caused by the hardware can be soothed and encouraged to heal with a warm saltwater rinse. Dissolving half a teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water and gently swishing the solution for thirty to sixty seconds helps to cleanse the area and reduce inflammation. Topical oral anesthetic gels, which contain ingredients like benzocaine, can also be applied directly to a painful sore to temporarily numb the area.
Dietary Adjustments
Dietary adjustments are useful when the teeth feel sensitive, especially in the first few days after an appointment. Sticking to soft foods that require minimal chewing reduces the force placed on the newly moving teeth. Examples of soft foods include:
- Mashed potatoes.
- Yogurts.
- Smoothies.
- Soft-cooked vegetables.
Using a cold compress or an ice pack on the outside of the cheek can also help to numb the area and reduce localized swelling.