When you first get braces, your orthodontist will likely give you a kit of essential tools and accessories to help you adjust to your new hardware. One common item that you may receive in this kit is orthowax. orthowax is a soft and pliable substance that can be used to cover any sharp wires or brackets on your braces, providing comfort and relief from irritation. In this article, we will explore the benefits of orthowax for braces and how to use it effectively.
What is orthowax?
orthowax is a non-toxic and safe-to-use orthodontic wax that is specifically designed for individuals with braces. It is made of medical-grade paraffin wax, which makes it soft and malleable. Orthowax comes in small containers or strips that can easily be molded and applied to areas of your braces that are causing irritation or discomfort.
The Benefits of Orthowax for Braces
1. Pain Relief: One of the most significant benefits of orthowax is its ability to provide relief from pain and discomfort caused by braces. When you first get your braces or after an adjustment, your mouth may feel sore as it adjusts to the pressure of the wires and brackets. Applying orthowax to the sharp or poking areas can help reduce friction and irritation, making it more comfortable to wear your braces.
2. Protection: Orthowax acts as a protective barrier between your braces and the soft tissues of your mouth. It can prevent cuts and scrapes on your cheeks, lips, and tongue that may occur due to the sharp edges of wires or brackets. By applying orthowax to these areas, you can create a smooth surface that reduces the likelihood of injuries.
3. Easy to Use: Orthowax is simple and easy to use. All you need to do is take a small piece of the wax, roll it into a ball, and gently press it onto the area of your braces that is causing discomfort. The warmth of your fingers will soften the wax, allowing it to adhere to the braces securely. You can easily remove and replace the wax as needed.
4. Versatile: Orthowax can be used for various purposes besides providing comfort and protection. It can also be used to hold broken or loose brackets in place temporarily until you can see your orthodontist for repairs. Additionally, orthowax can be used to hold elastics in place or cover elastics that may be rubbing against your lips or cheeks.
5. Non-toxic: Orthowax is made of medical-grade paraffin wax, making it non-toxic and safe to use. It is unlikely to cause any allergic reactions or harm to your oral health. You can use orthowax with confidence, knowing that it is designed to be gentle on your mouth.
How to Use Orthowax Effectively
1. Wash your hands thoroughly before handling orthowax to prevent any bacteria from transferring to your mouth.
2. Take a small piece of orthowax and roll it into a ball between your fingers. Make sure the wax is soft and pliable before applying it to your braces.
3. Gently press the orthowax onto the sharp or poking areas of your braces. Ensure that it covers the entire area to create a smooth surface.
4. If the orthowax becomes dislodged or loses its shape, simply remove it and replace it with a fresh piece.
5. Use orthowax as needed whenever you experience discomfort or irritation from your braces.
In conclusion, orthowax is a valuable tool for individuals with braces, providing relief from pain and discomfort, protecting the soft tissues of the mouth, and offering versatility in its use. By following the tips mentioned above, you can effectively use orthowax to make your braces-wearing experience more comfortable and manageable. If you have braces and have not yet tried orthowax, consider asking your orthodontist about it to see if it can benefit you.