After braces or Invisalign have been placed, it will take some time to get used to them in the mouth.

This is when you will most require wax. The braces or the edges of the aligners might irritate causing some discomfort on the inside of the mouth. Wax helps to create a barrier between the bracket and the inside of your cheeks, lips. Over time as you get used to the braces and your mouth “toughens up” you may require less wax.

Orthodontic Wax is usually made of paraffin, bees wax or carnauba and is generally given to you in your goodies bag when you first get your braces on. The wax is not toxic and so there is no need to worry if you happen to swallow it accidentally.

Alternatives to Orthodontic Wax

If you are not a fan of wax or you have run out of orthodontic wax, there are some clever substitutes you can use for the time being until you can get your hands on some orthodontic wax.

Sugar Free Chewing Gum

The title itself specifies that the gum you choose MUST be sugar free. Take a small piece of sugar free gum and roll it into pea sized ball. The constant rolling would make the piece of gum soft enough to be placed on the sharp edge of the braces. If the gum remains dry or hard even after rolling it, chew on it for a few minutes until it becomes soft and mushy. Then tear it into small pieces and stick it onto the sharp edges.

This is however only a short term fix for protecting your lips and cheeks from the braces and should not be used as a long term solution. Using sugar free chewing gum should get you through until you are able to get back in to see us and get some orthodontic wax.

Even if you are still struggling with mouth irritation despite using wax or other methods – don’t give up. The mouth will normally adjust over time and the irritation will settle down. You will have your new smile sooner than you know it.