When we fit your braces, they’ll feel a bit strange at first. Whether you opt for fixed braces or clear aligners, they’ll take several days to get used to.

To stop your braces from irritating the insides of your cheeks, we can provide dental wax to shield your mouth and prevent ulcers from developing.

You shouldn’t need to use wax throughout your treatment, but it can be invaluable during those first few days.

What is orthodontic wax?

Orthodontic wax is usually made from paraffin, beeswax or carnauba wax. You can choose from standard wax or flavoured variations, including mint.

It’s sold in small packets that you can keep in your pocket or handbag close at hand.

We stock wax at the practice, or you’ll find it in most high street pharmacists.

When should you use wax?

If a section of your brace starts to rub the inside of your mouth, apply some wax before it becomes painful.

Sometimes, the archwire we use to move your teeth can shift slightly and poke out. Contact us for advice as we may need to trim it, but in the meantime, you can use wax to stop it from irritating your cheeks.

If a bracket or wire comes loose, you can use a piece of wax to secure it in place until we can fix it.
Orthodontic wax can even save the day after your braces come off. If your fixed retainer break, you can use wax to cover any sharp areas temporarily.

Our Invisalign patients don’t usually have any issues with their aligners. Occasionally, though, the edge of an aligner can feel slightly rough.

If this happens, you can apply a small piece of wax along the edge of the aligner, or you can very carefully smooth the aligner using an emery board. If you need any help or advice, don’t hesitate to contact us.

How to apply wax to your braces

1. Wash your hands and brush your teeth.
2. Pinch off a small piece of wax roughly the size of a pea.
3. Soften it between your fingers and roll it into a ball.
4. Gently push it over the bothersome area of your braces.
5. Ta-dah! Instant relief.

You can leave the wax on overnight. It’s not a problem if you accidentally swallow some.

Remove any wax before eating or drinking and cleaning your teeth.

If you have any questions about how to use wax, we’re always at the end of the phone. Eventually, your braces will become part of your everyday routine.