It is generally not recommended to eat or brush your teeth with dental wax on your braces. While dental wax is safe to use, it is not meant to be ingested or swallowed.
When you eat with dental wax on your braces, the wax can become dislodged and may get stuck in your food. This can be uncomfortable and may also cause you to accidentally swallow the wax, which is not harmful but may cause stomach discomfort.
Additionally, brushing your teeth with dental wax can make it difficult to clean your teeth properly, as the wax can get in the way of your toothbrush bristles.
Here are some other tips, dos, and don’ts when using wax and its alternatives on your braces:
Precautions for using dental wax: Dos and Don’ts
Don’t swallow dental wax
Dental wax is not meant to be ingested and can cause digestive problems if swallowed. If you accidentally swallow it and you develop symptoms that refuse to go away, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately, as you could be allergic to an ingredient.
Don’t use too much wax
Using too much dental wax is a hazardous wastage, as it is likely to dislodge when speaking or eating, increasing the risk of choking. Use only a small amount of wax to cover the problematic areas of the bracket or wire.
Don’t reuse wax
If the wax falls off, or if you remove it before meals, don’t return it in your mouth. Instead, use some fresh wax
Don’t use wax on broken brackets
If a bracket or wire is broken, do not use dental wax to cover it up. Contact your orthodontist instead to get it repaired.
Don’t leave the wax on for too long
You shouldn’t keep the wax on your teeth for a very long time. Leaving the wax for longer than a day increases the risk of food particles sticking on the wax and causing bacteria to buildup in your mouth, which may lead to gum disease and cavities. Ideally, you should replace it at least twice a day, after meals, on well-brushed teeth.
Do maintain hygiene and keep the wax clean
Before applying dental wax, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly to avoid introducing any bacteria into your mouth. Also, try to avoid touching the wax with your fingers while applying it.
Do apply the wax on dry appliances
Before applying or reapplying the wax, make sure that the area is dry enough, as this will make it adhere better.
Do leave the wax in place overnight
It’s best to leave the dental wax in place when going to bed to avoid hurting your mouth further when sleeping, and to give any injuries more time to heal.
Do check for allergies
Some people may be allergic to certain types of dental wax, so it’s important to test a small amount on your skin before using it in your mouth. If you experience any irritation or allergic reaction, stop using the wax and consult your orthodontist.
Allergic reaction from dental wax
The main ingredient in dental wax that can cause an allergic reaction is beeswax. Some people may be allergic to beeswax or other ingredients in the wax, such as colorants or flavorings.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction to dental wax may include redness, itching, swelling, or a rash in the area where the wax was applied. In severe cases, the person may experience difficulty breathing or a drop in blood pressure, which require immediate medical attention.
If you experience any of these symptoms after applying dental wax, remove it immediately and contact your healthcare provider.
It is important to note that allergic reactions to dental wax are rare, but they can occur. If you have a known allergy to beeswax or other ingredients in dental wax, it is best to avoid using it and seek alternative solutions to braces dental wax.
How to eat with dental wax on braces
If you need to eat while wearing dental wax on your braces, it is best to remove the wax beforehand and then replace it after you finish eating. To remove the wax, you can use a toothbrush, your fingers, or a dental pick.
If you accidentally swallow the wax, it is usually not a cause for concern, but you may experience some discomfort until it passes through your system.
How to brush your teeth with dental wax
It is generally not recommended to brush your teeth with dental wax on your braces as the wax can interfere with the cleaning process and create more plaque buildup. It’s best to remove the wax before you start.
Here’s how to go about it:
- To remove the wax, gently pull it off the brackets and wires. You can also use a toothpick or a small brush to remove any residual wax that may be stuck in hard-to-reach areas.
- After removing the wax, brush your teeth thoroughly using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Make sure to brush every surface of your teeth and braces, including the front, back, and chewing surfaces.
- Pay extra attention to cleaning around the brackets and wires, where plaque can easily accumulate.
- After brushing, rinse your mouth with water to remove any leftover toothpaste and debris.
- You can also use an antimicrobial mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
Remember to brush your teeth at least twice a day, for two minutes each time, and floss daily to maintain good oral hygiene while wearing braces.
Final thoughts
In conclusion, using dental wax on braces can provide relief from discomfort and irritation caused by the brackets and wires. However, it’s important to follow the dos and don’ts of using wax to ensure its effectiveness and your oral hygiene.
In summary, do replace the wax twice a day, apply it on clean teeth after meals, and remove it before brushing or flossing. Don’t reuse the wax, leave it in your mouth for too long, or eat or drink while wearing it.
By following these simple guidelines, you can effectively use wax on your braces and maintain a healthy, happy smile.
