Wax for braces: when is it needed, how to use it?

Wax for braces is the best salvation from scratches on the mucous membrane

The process of correcting dental defects using a braces system usually takes at least a year. During this period, it is important for the patient to alleviate his condition as much as possible, especially in the first time after the installation of a fixed appliance, when it causes severe discomfort and, moreover, out of habit, injures the oral mucosa. To protect the inner surface of the cheeks and lips, experts recommend using orthodontic wax for braces. Today we’ll talk about what this product is, why it is used in dentistry and how to apply it correctly.

Where is it sold?

Just a decade ago, wax for orthodontic systems could only be purchased at a dentist’s office at a high price. But as the dental industry developed, new manufacturers appeared on the market.

Now these products can be purchased not only in dental clinics, but also in pharmacies. In large cities you can find stores specializing in orthodontic products, including wax.

We suggest you familiarize yourself with Which irrigator for braces is better to choose

An alternative option is online stores that sell products designed for the installation and care of orthodontic devices.

Why use wax when you wear braces - indications for use

Before moving on to the question of how to use dental wax for braces, let’s figure out why it is needed. Regardless of what type of permanent structure you are going to install, what material it will be made of, get ready for some discomfort at first. The protruding parts of the system will rub the inner surface of the cheeks and lips, causing some pain.

Wax for braces - what is it for?

To minimize discomfort during the adaptation period, as well as eliminate the possibility of scratches and ulcers, experts suggest using special medical wax. This is a protective agent that reliably protects against rubbing, but does not in any way affect the functionality of the structure. It can be used at any stage of orthodontic treatment. On thematic forums there are often questions about the correct name of the composition. Orthodontic wax or just for braces – it doesn’t have any special name.

“This is already the second year that I have been wearing braces. I have a regular iron model, and at first the wax really helped. At first, the sharp elements of the structure strongly rubbed the mucous membrane, and this miracle remedy helped protect it from scratches and bleeding cuts. To be honest, I haven’t even heard of any alternatives...”

Anton1908, Tula, from correspondence on the forum www.32top.ru

Some models of braces have a locking system for attaching the arch to the plates - such fasteners also often rub soft tissues. It may also happen that the arch simply falls out of the groove, and before the visit to the orthodontist it will have time to injure the mucous membrane - wax will help to avoid such a nuisance.

Some important tips

In addition to wax, orthodontists recommend using additional methods to eliminate discomfort of the mucous membranes and teeth. Let's look at each of them in more detail.

1. To prevent and strengthen the immune system, you can use folk remedies that are available in pharmacies. During the period of bite correction, the soft tissues of the oral cavity are most vulnerable. It is for this reason that special attention must be paid to hygiene. Rinse your mouth with herbal infusions. Infusions containing chamomile and calendula are effective. Medicinal plants are good remedies that can protect mucous membranes.
2. Never replace wax with chewing gum! First, it will stick to the structure, creating a new source for bacteria to accumulate. Secondly, the components of a viscous product can cause dental disease and additional irritation of the mucous membrane. What can replace wax? Unfortunately, there is no good alternative, so be sure to have the product on hand.
3. After installing braces or replacing the arch, try to talk as little as possible. This advice may seem humorous, but do not underestimate it. Healing of soft tissues will proceed faster when the oral cavity is in a calm state. Excessive movements will cause additional pain. In this case, you should just listen to your general condition and do not forget that, if necessary, you can use wax for braces.
4. Do not eat food that is too cold or hot. Sudden temperature changes negatively affect not only braces, but also tooth enamel. In addition, if you have damage to the mucous membranes, such products will only worsen the situation.

Protective wax has a number of undoubted advantages. This material is safe for the body and easy to use. A small portion of organic material can solve such a serious problem as chafing of the soft tissues of the oral cavity. The product has a compact shape and comes in convenient packaging, so you can always carry it with you. In conclusion, we invite you to watch an informative video that shows detailed instructions for using orthodontic wax.

Source: TvoiBreketi.ru

What is included in the product, its main characteristics

Wax for protecting teeth and gums from damage by braces is visually a dense, colorless substance, somewhat reminiscent of plasticine. Usually the product is produced in the form of thin tubes connected to each other into 3 or 7 g plates. However, some manufacturers offer their products in tubes for easier use. The composition of all brands is approximately the same:

1. silicone base: gives the wax a certain degree of elasticity so that it is easy to stick and remove, and also provides protection for soft tissues from chafing and cuts from sharp parts of the structure. This is a completely safe component, completely natural and non-toxic,
2. aromatic component: some manufacturers add aromatic additives to their products, which additionally provide fresh breath and a pleasant taste in the mouth. The assortment includes strawberry, mint, orange, vanilla and other flavors.

This drug is a dense, colorless substance.
If you use this remedy from the first days of installing braces, you can completely avoid any unpleasant sensations. To speed up the healing process of existing ulcers and scratches, experts in the field of orthodontics recommend using a special antibacterial wax, which provides additional antibacterial treatment for microtraumas. If, subject to the use of a protective agent, severe discomfort does not go away within a week, it makes sense to contact your orthodontist - perhaps some of the elements of the system are installed incorrectly.

Review of popular brands

Orthodontic stores and pharmacies have a large selection of orthodontic wax. What to choose, what to pay attention to?

Dentaid Vitis Orthodontic Wax

Spanish-made wax with mineral oil, distinguished by aromatic additives:

• grape;
• apple;
• lemon;
• strawberry;
• mint;
• other.

The paste has a neutral taste and does not cause allergic reactions. The convenience of using the wax mass is that it dissolves independently under the influence of salivary fluid: it will dissolve in it. The mass is completely safe for the stomach and has no irritating effect. In addition to aromatic substances, the mass contains antibacterial components. The mass is packaged in the form of autonomous rods, packed in a vacuum environment. You can buy pasta without any additives or aromatics.

Disadvantages: it cannot always protect against rough parts of the system due to its too soft texture; the mineral oil in the composition is not suitable for everyone.

3M Unitek

This composition contains a large percentage of orthodontic silicone, which increases plasticity. The mass is easily applied to the surface, evenly distributed, and does not roll into lumps. The absence of aromatic substances allows the products to be used by patients suffering from allergies.

The disadvantage can be considered the shape in the form of thin plates. That is, the patient must pinch off a piece of mass from the plate each time with his fingers. This is not always convenient. The price is several times higher than Dentaid products.

DynaFlex

It has a denser consistency than its competitors. A joint concern of the Netherlands and the USA has created a unique wax mass that provides reliable protection against friction. Manufacturers assure that even an unexpected break of the arc does not injure the mucous membrane due to the increased density of the wax mass. The release form is self-contained wax rods soldered to each other.

L'industria Zingardi

The wax mass of the Italian manufacturer is not flavored with fragrances or flavoring additives. This is a classic composition suitable for people suffering from allergies. The transparent white composition is invisible on the structure, but reliably protects the mucous membrane from chafing. To heal occasional wounds, the composition contains antibacterial components. The company offers its products in convenient packaging: ready-to-use balls are located in a separate cell shell.

The mass is hypoallergenic, it interferes with conversation, does not irritate the stomach, does not dissolve with saliva, is well fixed, and holds securely. However, the mass cannot always be bought at the pharmacy; you have to look for other suppliers.

GUM

Orthodontic wax for braces containing aloe vera and vitamin E promotes the healing of microcracks and cuts. The composition also includes pain-relieving components, so the product can be used by children. Saves in cases where an arc unexpectedly pops out. While the patient gets an appointment with the orthodontist, the paste will protect against injury. However, in case of severe pain, you need to take painkillers.

Ortho Performance

The wax mass is well suited for patients of any age, even small children. Some formulations taste like candy, but there are also classic flavors - mint, strawberry. The mass contains painkillers and anti-inflammatory components. The product is indispensable during the period of adaptation to the braces system; it can also be used in the future.

Revyline

The wax mass of the Russian manufacturer is safe and reliably protects the mucous membrane from injury. Gradually dissolves under the influence of saliva. The composition includes antibacterial components. The products are available in six flavors, but have a neutral taste. The dense consistency of the mass contributes to economical consumption. The product should only be applied to a dry surface. This product has no negative reviews.

Y-Kelin Orthodontic Wax

Chinese orthodontic paste with neutral taste and aromatic additives. Attracts buyers with a low price. The product is safe, non-toxic, but not suitable for children. Can be used at night. However, the packaging instructions are only in Chinese, which creates certain difficulties.

Pierrot

The paste consists of only one ingredient - 100% beeswax. A substance without odor, taste or aroma. It has a dense consistency that provides reliable protection against chafing and wounds. In order for the wax for braces to adhere tightly to the mucous membrane, you need to apply it to a previously dried surface. Otherwise, the effect will not be achieved.

If you heat the wax ball too much, the mass becomes too soft: it is difficult to fix it on the surface. Among the disadvantages are the soft consistency and difficulties in cleaning metal parts from the paste.

Dentalpik Orthodontic Wax

The product from an American manufacturer is easy to use, has a medium density, and is easy to clean from metal parts. Contains microcrystalline wax, fragrances, paraffin.

One of the disadvantages is the lack of products for free sale (only in some online stores). Too soft a texture contributes to wasteful consumption, and customers also note poor-quality attachment of the wax mass to the system parts.

What are the pros and cons

Before we figure out how to use wax correctly, let’s outline its main advantages. According to numerous patient reviews, the protective agent in question has a whole list of important advantages:

• protects the oral mucosa from mechanical injury,
• prevents the occurrence of scratches and ulcers, irritation and inflammation,
• reduces the duration of the adaptation period, helps to avoid unpleasant sensations,
• Some brands offer products with aromatic additives to choose from,
• to some extent allows you to improve the appearance of the iron structure, since after rubbing the protruding elements with wax, they will become less noticeable from the outside,
• the composition is completely harmless, does not provoke allergy attacks,
• vacuum packaging prevents contamination of the wax with dust,
• ease of use, does not require specialist participation,
• affordable price.

Wax can protect the mucous membrane from injury.
As with any other product, there is a risk of stumbling upon low quality. Such a product will quickly wash off and become loose under the influence of saliva. It is recommended to remove the wax before eating. If the patient has a tendency to allergic reactions, it is better to give preference to a product without fragrances.

Are there any contraindications

The wax used in orthodontic practice has a completely safe composition, and therefore is characterized by a minimum number of contraindications. Many people are interested in the question of whether it is possible to sleep with it. Because it is non-toxic, it does not need to be washed off before bed if your braces become chafed while you sleep.

In some cases, the use of this product is not recommended, mainly due to increased sensitivity to individual components included in the composition. Otherwise, the risk of developing an allergic reaction will increase, which can be expressed in the form of itching, swelling, redness of soft tissues and the development of an inflammatory process1. If you observe something similar in yourself, stop using the composition and consult a dentist for advice on eliminating symptoms.

How to use the product correctly

Now let's figure out how to properly apply wax to the plates and protruding elements of the device to provide protection for the gums. Often, immediately after installing the system, the doctor himself hands over the product and, accordingly, explains how to glue it. Experts advise adhering to the following sequence:

1. first you need to thoroughly clean your teeth and braces, wash your hands thoroughly,
2. it is necessary to carefully examine the oral mucosa and determine which parts injure the soft tissues,
3. then use a cotton swab to dry the selected areas,
4. carefully pinch or cut off a small piece of wax and hold it in your hand for a while so that under the influence of body temperature it softens and becomes more pliable,
5. roll into a ball and apply to the problematic part without applying excessive pressure. There is no point in pressing the product hard, because to ensure the desired effect it should protrude slightly on the structure,
6. The protective element is removed very simply - carefully by hand or using a toothbrush or brush. Additionally, it is recommended to rinse your mouth thoroughly with water. The structure should be cleaned every time before eating.

Before use, roll the wax into a ball and heat it
. Read about how to care for braces after installing them in our special article >>>

Please note that the product is not intended for repeated use. If you remove the wax, for example, before eating, then you will not be able to put it back - it will not stick properly and will not provide the necessary protection.

What can you use as an alternative?

We figured out how to stick the product to the rubbing parts of the brace system, and now let's see what can replace it with if, for example, it is not at hand at the right time. Here are a few proven methods, which, however, should be discussed with your treating orthodontist before using:

• while wearing braces, it is allowed to use ordinary wax or paraffin - if you exclude aromatic additives, their composition is practically no different from orthodontic products,
• beeswax is also suitable for these purposes, sometimes it can be found in pharmacies or regular stores,
• in conditions when nothing else is at hand, you can put a piece of cotton wool behind your cheek, but then later it will be quite difficult to clean the system parts,
• to reduce pain and speed up the healing process of the mucous membrane, you can resort to decoctions of medicinal herbs - chamomile, calendula, mint. They are recommended to be used for rinsing the mouth or in the form of applications that should be applied to a sore spot.

Beeswax can be a good alternative
. Keep in mind that to protect the mucous membrane from injury, you should never use chewing gum. Its small pieces quickly get stuck in the elements of the braces and then it is almost impossible to remove them from there. This can seriously damage an expensive device, some parts of which will have to be replaced at an additional cost.

1. Arsenina O.I., Sakharova E.B., Kabachek M.V. Therapeutic and preventive measures in the process of orthodontic treatment, 2002.

How to replace orthodontic wax

If it is not possible to use wax for braces or the wait for delivery from an online store is too long, you should not endure the discomfort; you can use other means.

To prevent and treat wounds and ulcers, you can rinse your mouth with herbal decoctions, which can be purchased at the pharmacy. Choose herbs that have antibacterial and soothing effects. For example, chamomile, calendula, etc. You can make lotions with a decoction of herbs to target the injury.

The absence of allergies to fragrances makes it possible to use paraffin instead of a specialized product. It is similar in its properties to orthodontic wax and practically copes with the task of protection.

Beeswax can be a naturally flavored wax. The organic product is easily accessible to consumers and easy to use.