Orthodontic wax is designed to create a smooth, protective barrier over sharp or irritating parts of braces hardware. This cushioning layer prevents the metal from rubbing against the soft tissues of the cheeks, lips, and gums. While effective, patients frequently run out of the material or dislike the pliable texture that easily dislodges during eating or speaking. Fortunately, several proven and safe alternatives are available that offer greater durability and convenience. These options range from different material compositions to specialized, pre-formed products that offer a more robust defense against hardware friction.
Dental Silicone
The most common and readily available alternative to traditional wax is dental-grade silicone, often sold as a putty or moldable strip. Unlike wax, which is soft and breaks down easily, silicone sets up firmer and is significantly more water-resistant, allowing it to remain in place for longer periods. This material is particularly useful for patients who experience frequent dislodging of standard wax, especially while sleeping or during periods of increased saliva flow.
Applying silicone requires an extra step to ensure proper adhesion to the bracket or wire. The area of the brace must be completely dried with a cotton swab or tissue before the small ball of silicone is pressed onto the irritating spot. If the metal surface is wet, the silicone will not form a secure bond and will fall off quickly. Once properly applied, silicone can often last through a meal and may only need to be replaced once a day, offering a distinct advantage in convenience over traditional wax. This material is available at most pharmacies or directly from the orthodontic office.
Specialized Guards and Covers
Beyond bulk silicone putty, a variety of specialized products have been developed to provide a more targeted or durable solution than traditional wax. These items are often pre-cut or pre-formed, simplifying the application process and offering enhanced staying power. One popular example is a product called OrthoDots, which are small, clear patches made of medical-grade silicone.
These pre-cut patches feature an adhesive layer that is moisture-activated, meaning the user does not need to completely dry the bracket before application. This ensures stronger adhesion compared to standard silicone putty. Other specialized options include flexible, channel-like guards or lip bumpers that can be clipped over an entire section of brackets. These devices provide continuous coverage for patients whose entire arch is causing friction, offering a broader protective shield than individual wax or silicone applications.
Fixing the Underlying Irritation
While temporary coverings like wax and silicone provide immediate comfort, they only mask the problem, and sometimes the hardware itself needs adjustment. Before applying any covering, a patient should first attempt a temporary adjustment of the irritating component. If a wire is poking out at the back of the mouth, a clean cotton swab or the eraser end of a new pencil can be used to gently push the wire toward the teeth and out of the way of the cheek. If a small wire tie, known as a ligature, is the source of the irritation, the same method can be used to tuck the loose end back down.
This gentle repositioning often provides instant relief until the patient can get to the office. However, if the discomfort is caused by a sharp, extending wire end or a loose bracket, professional attention is required. Patients should contact their orthodontist immediately, as a sharp archwire must be trimmed with specialized tools to prevent soft tissue damage. A loose bracket needs to be professionally re-bonded to keep the treatment plan on schedule.