Traditional braces rely on wires connected to brackets to apply pressure on teeth. However, contact between sharp edges and the soft tissues of your child’s mouth, like wires rubbing against the inner cheeks and gums, can sometimes lead to irritation and pain.
Dental wax for braces (also known as braces wax, orthodontic wax, or ortho wax) is a convenient way to prevent contact-based discomfort and provide immediate relief if your child experiences pain from new braces. In this article, we discuss what dental wax is, how it works, and how to use it for braces.
To learn more about dental wax or to answer any other questions related to braces for your child, call Ironwood Pediatric Dentistry at (480) 422-4544 or contact us online.
What is Dental Wax?
Dental wax is used by children with braces or retainers. It’s non-toxic and completely safe, even if accidentally swallowed.
Dental wax can be made from several types of materials, including natural waxes like beeswax or carnauba wax or petroleum-based materials such as paraffin wax. Wax is often mixed with other ingredients to soften texture or provide flavoring.
When selecting a wax for your child, remember to use FDA-approved waxes to make sure the product meets safety standards. When not in use, store the wax in a cool, dry container away from moisture to maintain wax hygiene.
Why and When to Apply Wax?
Typically, braces will sit comfortably against a child’s inner mouth and cause no irritation. However, pressure on the cheeks or lips can lead to discomfort by pressing them against the inner mouth.
If this happens, dental wax can be used as often as needed to create a buffer between the orthodontics and the cheek, lips, or gums. This should reduce pain, discomfort, and the risk of developing mouth sores.
There are plenty of reasons your child may need to use dental wax. For example, some children experience discomfort while playing brass instruments from pressing the mouthpiece against their lips and orthodontic gear. Other children may use wax to protect their mouths while playing sports or to reduce discomfort when sleeping.
Wax can also be used in some situations to protect the mouth when a wire falls out of place. However, if this happens, it is best to reach out to your child’s dentist to make an appointment.
How Does Dental Wax Work?
Dental wax is a simple, at-home treatment that is easy enough to be managed by patients of all ages, including children. Once the wax is at room temperature, it is soft enough to apply to braces by hand. The wax will stick to the braces and create a smooth barrier that will prevent discomfort from direct contact with the mouth.
Since dental wax is a temporary solution, it will gradually break down over time by either flaking off or peeling away. When this happens, the old wax can be removed with your fingers, and fresh wax can be applied if needed.
Where to Buy Dental Wax
You can buy wax at almost any pharmacy location. You may also receive wax from your child’s dentist.
How to Put On Dental Wax
Applying dental wax for braces is easy, and you can quickly teach your child how to do it. Here are the five steps to follow:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Dental wax products are not anti-microbial. Small particles on the fingers can work their way in if the hands are dirty. Only clean wax should be applied to prevent bacteria build-up.
- Brush your teeth. For dental wax to stick properly, it’s important to clean the tooth and orthodontic surfaces first. Otherwise, the wax may not adhere well, and it could affect oral hygiene.
- Pinch off a piece of wax. This should be about the size of a pea.
- Using the fingers, soften the wax. Roll and squeeze the wax into a small ball with fingers until it becomes softer, then flatten it out slightly.
- Gently and firmly press the wax into the braces. Avoid over-applying the wax, as this can lead to excess buildup.
That’s all there is to it.
How Long Does Dental Wax Last?
Braces wax can stay in place for up to two days and can be worn overnight. It’s also a good idea to keep some extra wax on hand for quick replacements.
Is it Possible to Eat While Using Dental Wax?
Generally, it is best to remove wax before eating and to reapply it afterward.
In some cases, eating while wearing wax for braces can make eating more comfortable. It can cushion between braces, brackets, wires, and inner mouth surfaces.
If your child does eat while wearing dental wax, some hard, crunchy, or sticky foods like popcorn, hard candies, and gum can cause problems by loosening or removing the wax.
Is Dental Wax Reusable?
While it’s possible to reuse braces wax in some cases, it’s better to use fresh wax to avoid potential oral hygiene issues. If fresh wax isn’t available, you can reapply the wax as long as it’s still clean and intact.
Wax that is dirty or contaminated with food particles should not be reused.
How to Remove Braces Wax
Your child should remove and replace the wax if it becomes dirty or comes apart from the braces.
To remove dental wax, gently peel it away with your fingers. Use dental floss or an interdental stick to clear any loose pieces. Removal should be done slowly and carefully to avoid damaging the orthodontic appliances.
After removing the wax, make sure your child brushes their teeth and rinses their mouth with warm water. This will help remove any leftover wax residue.
Call Ironwood Dental if You Have Questions About Orthodontic Wax While Wearing Braces
Ironwood Pediatric Dentistry offers child dental services in Scottsdale through all stages of your child’s growth, including braces. We can help you with practical advice on encouraging good oral hygiene habits for your children and answer any questions you have about their dental health.
To set up an appointment with one of our pediatric dentists, call us in Scottsdale at (480) 422-4544. If you prefer to contact us online to ask a question or to schedule an appointment, you can reach us here.
