Champion Dental Clinic
Dental wax is an essential tool for people wearing braces. It acts as a lifesaver in cases where the braces cause discomfort, such as the archwire rubbing against the lips or gums. The following article by Champion Dental will help you learn more about this type of dental wax.
What is dental wax?
Dental orthodontic wax is a specialized product used during the braces-wearing process to minimize the pain and discomfort caused by the contact between the orthodontic appliance and the lips, cheeks, and gums. Dental wax is designed in a small, compact box with various bright colors, containing sticks of wax that are connected to each other, measuring about 5cm in length.
Dental orthodontic wax is made of a translucent white material that is odorless and tasteless, providing convenient usage without causing discomfort. The composition of dental wax is derived from beeswax, ensuring its safety in case of accidental ingestion. Although dental wax has no negative impact on health, it is recommended to remove the wax from your mouth before eating or drinking.
What are the benefits of dental wax?
Pain and discomfort reduction during the braces-wearing process
Traditional braces appliances, made of rigid metal materials, often cause discomfort, especially during the initial stages of usage. Dental wax acts as a "barrier" between the appliance and the inner lips, cheeks, and tongue, helping to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with wearing braces.
Protection against tongue and soft tissues damage
In some cases, when laughing, speaking, or chewing with excessive force, braces appliances can come into contact with and cause damage to the tongue and soft tissues inside the mouth. In such situations, dental wax not only reduces discomfort but also serves as a protective cushion, preventing the occurrence of injuries.
Pain reduction during tooth decay
Dental orthodontic wax plays a similar role to a temporary filling, sealing cavities and limiting the progression of the condition. However, if you have issues related to gum disease or tooth decay that have led to pulp inflammation, the use of dental wax will not be effective. In this case, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with a dentist for timely and appropriate care.
Detailed Guide on How to Use Dental Wax
Using dental wax is a straightforward process, and below are three steps to effectively apply it.
Step 1: Clean your braces
Before applying dental wax, it is crucial to thoroughly clean your mouth to protect your teeth during the braces-wearing process. Pay close attention to deep cleaning the spaces between your teeth and the orthodontic wires using a toothbrush and dental floss. Additionally, you can enhance daily oral hygiene by incorporating mouthwash or saltwater rinses.
Step 2: Identify the wax placement areas
In this step, examine all areas that cause pain, injury, or discomfort, such as the archwire rubbing against the lips, cheeks, or other parts of the braces. This will help accurately determine the locations where dental wax needs to be applied.
Step 3: Apply dental wax
Before proceeding, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly to prevent bacterial contamination in your mouth through your hands.
Next, take out a strip of dental wax and cut a small amount, equivalent to the size of a pea. Then, flatten and shape the wax and apply it directly to the previously identified areas. The dental wax will quickly adhere to the brackets, and you can adjust the wax for comfort when closing your mouth while ensuring it does not fall off.
The Best Types of Dental Wax Available Today
Dental wax is categorized into two main groups: synthetic wax and natural wax (including beeswax, cocoa butter, and palm wax). Currently, some popular brands of dental wax that many people prefer include:
Curaprox Ortho Wax: Originating from Switzerland, this wax has excellent adhesive properties and a moderate level of flexibility. Its main ingredients include Paraffin, Hydrotreated wax, and Microcrystalline Wax, ensuring safety for oral health.
Ortho Classic Wax: This is one of the preferred and relatively cost-effective wax options, starting at around 35,000 VND per box. The wax is primarily made from medically safe components such as Paraffin, Microcrystalline wax, and Hydrotreated wax.
Piksters Wax: This dental wax is sourced from Australia and is made from natural ingredients, specifically honey, ensuring safety during usage. Additionally, the wax is conveniently packaged in a small, colorful box.
3M Unitek Wax: This wax for braces comes from the United States and is priced at around 70,000 VND per box, containing four sticks. The notable feature of this wax is its excellent flexibility and high adhesive ability, making it highly popular among users.
>> See more: Should decayed teeth be extracted or filled?
What should be noted when using dental wax?
During the process of using dental wax, to ensure effectiveness and safety, you should consider the following:
- Avoid leaving the dental wax on your teeth for more than two days. Keeping it on for too long can create conditions for plaque buildup and contribute to tooth decay.
- Remove the wax while eating to prevent the wax from sticking to food.
- To help alleviate pain when teeth are shifting during the braces-wearing process, you can apply wax before bedtime to enhance a better night's sleep.
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