Dental wax, often called orthodontic wax, is a temporary, non-toxic substance designed to act as a smooth barrier against the friction caused by braces. The hardware, including brackets, wires, or bands, can rub against the soft tissues of the mouth like the cheeks, lips, and gums, causing discomfort. This pliable material provides immediate relief, often containing natural components such as beeswax, carnauba wax, or food-grade paraffin. Wax is the simplest method available to manage this initial irritation.
Preparing the Area and Applying the Wax
Before applying the wax, proper hygiene is necessary to prevent introducing bacteria to the irritated area. Begin by thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water before touching the inside of your mouth or the wax. Next, identify the specific bracket or wire causing the irritation, which often corresponds to a visible sore spot or area of redness inside the cheek.
The most important step for successful adhesion is ensuring the application site is dry, as moisture prevents the wax from sticking effectively. Use a clean cotton swab or a piece of tissue to gently pat the metal surface completely dry. Pinch off a small amount of wax from the supply, aiming for a piece roughly the size of a standard pea.
Roll this small segment between your thumb and forefinger for about five seconds to warm and soften the material. This rolling action creates a pliable ball or small log shape, which improves its moldability and adherence to the appliance. Gently press the conditioned wax directly onto the dry bracket or wire with your fingertip, avoiding the gum tissue. Apply enough pressure to flatten the wax, ensuring it completely covers the sharp or irritating surface and creates a smooth, rounded barrier. A properly applied piece will adhere firmly to the metal, forming a protective coating that reduces friction, allowing any existing sores to begin the healing process.
Identifying Irritation Points and When to Reapply
The need for wax is usually signaled by a localized sore spot, but sometimes the irritation is caused by a wire that has shifted or a bracket that has come loose. Applying the wax proactively at the first sign of discomfort helps prevent a small rub from becoming a larger, more painful lesion. Since the material is subjected to the constant movement of the tongue, chewing, and saliva, the applied wax will naturally degrade or become displaced over time.
Wax should be replaced regularly, ideally at least twice daily, because food particles and bacteria can accumulate on its surface. Leaving the same piece in place for an extended period compromises oral hygiene and may increase the risk of plaque buildup around the brace. A fresh application of wax is recommended after brushing your teeth following meals, and it is beneficial to apply a new piece before going to sleep. This ensures the protective barrier is maintained overnight when saliva flow is reduced and the mouth is prone to drying out.
Maintenance and Safety Concerns
A consistent rule is to remove the wax before eating any meal, even though it is not harmful if accidentally ingested. Food particles easily become embedded in the soft wax, which makes it harder to clean and significantly reduces its effectiveness. Similarly, the wax must be removed before brushing so the bristles can properly clean the bracket and the surrounding tooth structure.
To remove a piece, gently peel it off the appliance using a clean finger or the tip of a soft toothbrush. Avoid using anything sharp like a toothpick to prevent injury to the mouth or damage to the appliance. While swallowing small amounts of orthodontic wax is safe due to its non-toxic composition, it should never be consumed intentionally.
For storage, keep the remaining wax supply in its original, clean container at room temperature to prevent it from melting or becoming too soft to handle.