Traditional braces in Glenpool are a tried-and-true method for straightening crooked teeth. If you’re unfamiliar with everyday life with braces, you may be somewhat confused when your dentist sends you home with a small container of dental wax. It may not seem obvious right away, but this material will help your treatment go as smoothly as possible. Read on to learn more about dental wax and how to use it properly while wearing your traditional braces!
What Is Dental Wax?
Candles are typically the first object that comes to mind when people think about wax. Thankfully, wax for braces in Glenpool is much different! This type of wax is usually made of natural materials like carnauba, paraffin wax, and beeswax. It’s known for being pliable enough to mold easily onto dental work like braces, but durable enough to stay there for some time.
Why Is Dental Wax Used with Braces?
It can take a few days for your mouth to adjust to your new traditional braces. Initially, the metal wires and brackets may cause irritation to your tongue, lips, and cheeks. Eventually, these areas will become tougher and won’t be bothered by your braces anymore. In the meantime, you don’t have to suffer through the discomfort! Dental wax is meant to be applied to these sharp areas of your braces in order to smooth them out. This stops the unwanted abrasion and allows your soft tissues to heal.
How Is Dental Wax Used?
Before applying dental wax to your braces, it’s important to wash your hands and brush your teeth to ensure you don’t accidentally trap any plaque or food debris. Then, pinch off a small amount of dental wax and roll it into a ball. In most cases, you’ll only need a piece about the size of half a pea. Finally, smooth it over the problematic area of your braces. Leave it in place for as long as you need, even while eating and drinking. Don’t panic if you accidentally swallow it—dental wax is non-toxic.
What Can You Do If Dental Wax Isn’t Enough?
Any means of straightening teeth is going to feel a little uncomfortable for a short amount of time. If you need to, you can take pain relievers or use a cold compress for additional support for the first several days. However, if the discomfort doesn’t subside by then or your dental wax doesn’t seem to be helping your sore spots, contact your dentist. They’ll inspect your braces and make the necessary adjustments for a more comfortable fit.
Braces may not be the most comfortable experience in the world, but the results are well worth it. With the help of dental wax, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a straighter smile in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Dalia Georgy of Glenpool Braces has been helping her patients’ smiles look and feel their best for over seven years now. She is a graduate to the University of Oklahoma and an active member in the American Dental Association, the Oklahoma Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry. With over 200 continuing education credits, she has also completed extensive advanced training in braces. If you have more questions about life with traditional braces, feel free to contact her via her website or at (918) 201-1414.