Orthodontic treatment can be a game-changer for those looking to achieve a straighter, healthier smile. However, one common issue that many people face during their treatment is irritation or discomfort from the brackets and wires of their braces. This is where wax orthodontics comes in.
Wax orthodontics involves using a special type of dental wax to create a barrier between the braces and the soft tissues of the mouth, providing relief from discomfort and irritation. In this article, we will delve into the world of wax orthodontics, discussing what it is, how it works, and the benefits it offers to those undergoing orthodontic treatment.
What is wax orthodontics?
Wax orthodontics refers to the use of dental wax to alleviate discomfort and irritation caused by braces. This wax is specially designed to be safe for oral use and is often provided to patients by their orthodontist. The wax can be easily applied to the brackets and wires of the braces, creating a smooth surface that reduces friction and prevents the braces from rubbing against the cheeks, lips, and tongue.
How Does wax orthodontics Work?
When braces are first put on, or after adjustments are made, it is common for patients to experience irritation and soreness in their mouth. This can be due to the brackets and wires rubbing against the soft tissues of the mouth, causing discomfort and even small sores to develop. Wax orthodontics works by providing a protective barrier between the braces and the soft tissues, preventing any friction from occurring.
To apply the wax, patients simply take a small piece and roll it into a ball. They then press the wax onto the area of the braces that is causing irritation, ensuring that it covers the brackets and wires completely. The wax will stay in place until it is removed by the patient, providing relief from discomfort for as long as it is needed.
Benefits of wax orthodontics
There are several benefits to using wax orthodontics during orthodontic treatment. One of the main advantages is that it helps to reduce friction between the braces and the soft tissues of the mouth, making it more comfortable for patients to wear their braces. This can be especially helpful during the initial stages of treatment when the mouth is still adjusting to the presence of braces.
Additionally, wax orthodontics can help to prevent sores and ulcers from developing in the mouth. By creating a smooth surface over the brackets and wires, the wax reduces the likelihood of the braces rubbing against the cheeks, lips, and tongue, which can cause irritation and sore spots to form.
Furthermore, wax orthodontics is easy to apply and remove, making it a convenient solution for patients who are experiencing discomfort from their braces. The wax is also safe for oral use, so patients can rest assured that it will not harm their teeth or gums.
In conclusion, wax orthodontics is a simple yet effective solution for alleviating discomfort and irritation caused by braces. By creating a protective barrier between the braces and the soft tissues of the mouth, dental wax can make orthodontic treatment more comfortable and enjoyable for patients. If you are undergoing orthodontic treatment and experiencing irritation from your braces, be sure to ask your orthodontist about wax orthodontics. It may just be the solution you need to make your orthodontic journey a more pleasant one.