Orthodontic Waxing: An Important Ally of Braces
Table of Contents
What Is Orthodontic Wax?
Orthodontic wax is a soft stuff that helps when braces hurt your mouth. You put this wax on sharp parts of your braces to make them smooth. Then they don’t hurt your cheeks or gums.
The wax is made from nice things like:
- Beeswax
- Carnauba wax
- Paraffin wax
You can use wax with all types of braces:
- Metal braces
- Ceramic braces
- Self-ligating braces
- Lingual braces
Did you know? If you eat a bit of wax by mistake, it’s OK! The wax won’t hurt you.
When To Use Braces Wax
Braces wax helps when your mouth hurts. Here are times when you need it:
- When sharp wires poke your cheeks
- When you first get new braces
- When a bracket breaks
- When you play sports
- When your Invisalign edges feel sharp
Almost 8 out of 10 people with braces need wax in the first week! When braces are new, they can rub and make sore spots in your mouth. Wax helps make this better.
![Orthodontic wax on braces]
How To Put On Orthodontic Wax
It’s easy to put on braces wax! Just follow these steps:
- Wash your hands first
- Roll a small bit of wax (like a pea)
- Press the wax on the sharp part
- Replace the wax after you eat
Pro Tip: Make the wax cold first! This makes it less sticky and more easy to use.
You can put wax on:
- Back molar bands
- Front brackets
- Any spot that hurts
Other Things To Use Besides Wax
If you don’t have orthodontic wax, you can try:
- Silicone covers for wires
- Dental putty
- Lip protectors made of soft silicone
Look at what works best:
| Item | How Long It Lasts | Cost | Easy To Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orthodontic Wax | 4-6 hours | $ | Very Easy |
| Silicone Covers | 1-2 weeks | $$ | Easy |
| Dental Putty | 1 day | $$ | Medium |
| Lip Protectors | 1 month | $$$ | Hard at first |
You can find these at stores or ask your orthodontist.
Best Wax For Braces
Not all wax is the same! Look for:
- Medical-grade wax that’s safe
- Flavored wax like mint or no flavor
- Hypoallergenic wax if you have allergies
Good brands to try are:
- Gishy Goo
- DentalCare BioWax
- Azdent with nice smells like strawberry and orange
Warning: Never use candles or crayons! They are not safe for your mouth.
Questions People Ask About Orthodontic Wax
Can wax hurt my braces?
No! Wax comes off easy and won’t stick to braces forever.
How long does wax last?
About 4 to 12 hours. You need to put new wax on after you eat.
Can kids use wax?
Yes! Kids 8 years and older can use wax if grown-ups help them.
Does wax work with Invisalign?
Yes! You can put wax on sharp edges of clear aligners too.
Learn more about how to keep your teeth clean with braces in our guide to custom dental whitening plates trays.
When To Call Your Orthodontist
Sometimes wax isn’t enough. Call your orthodontist if:
- Your mouth hurts for more than 3 days
- You think you swallowed a wire
- Your mouth gets itchy or puffy after using wax
Many people with braces also need a custom sports mouth guard to protect their teeth when playing sports.
Types Of Braces That Need Wax
All braces can need wax, but some need it more:
- Self-lockng braces like Damon System
- Lingual braces that go behind teeth
- Traditional metal braces with wires
After your braces come off, you might need an Essix orthodontic retainer to keep your teeth straight.
How To Care For Your Braces
Orthodontic wax helps with pain, but you still need to take care of your braces:
- Brush with a special toothbrush
- Use a water flosser to clean between braces
- Avoid hard and sticky foods
- Use interdental brushes to clean tight spots
- See your orthodontist for check-ups
New Ways To Make Braces Better
Braces are getting better all the time! New things for 2025:
- 3D printed braces that fit better
- Smart sensors that check how your teeth move
- Micro-pulse tools that make teeth move faster
- AI software that plans your treatment
- Better wax that lasts longer
Wax For Different Age Groups
Kids (8-12):
- Colorful wax makes braces fun
- Fruit flavors help them use it
- Parents should help put it on
Teens (13-19):
- Clear or tooth-colored wax looks better
- Mint flavors are popular
- Easy to carry to school
Adults:
- Long-lasting wax for busy days
- Unflavored options
- Less need as adults adjust faster
How Wax Helps With Different Braces Problems
| Problem | How Wax Helps | Type of Wax Best |
|---|---|---|
| Poking wire | Covers sharp end | Standard wax |
| Bracket rubbing | Creates cushion | Thicker wax |
| Lip sores | Protects from more rubbing | Medicated wax |
| Cheek irritation | Makes smooth surface | Extra sticky wax |
| Gum pain | Blocks bracket edges | Soft wax |
Stories From People Using Braces Wax
Sam, age 10: “I was sad when I got braces. They hurt! My mom put wax on them and I felt better fast!”
Taylor, age 16: “I play in the school band. I couldn’t play my trumpet with new braces until I found wax. Now I can play all my songs!”
Alex, age 35: “I got braces as a grown-up. The wax helped me talk in meetings without pain.”
When To Use More Or Less Wax
You will need more wax:
- First week with new braces
- After wire changes
- When playing sports
- When sleeping if you have sores
You will need less wax:
- After a few months with braces
- When your mouth gets used to braces
- After your orthodontist fixes rough spots
Fun Facts About Orthodontic Wax
- Wax for braces was first used in the 1950s
- It can come in over 10 flavors
- You might use 30 boxes of wax during your time with braces
- The wax is like the wax used to make some candies
- In 2025, some wax is made from plants and is better for Earth
How To Save Money On Orthodontic Wax
Wax doesn’t cost much, but here are tips:
- Buy in bulk
- Ask your orthodontist for free samples
- Look for coupons online
- Try store brands
- Keep wax clean so it lasts longer
Wrap-Up: Why Orthodontic Wax Is Your Friend
Orthodontic wax is a big help when you have braces. It:
- Stops pain
- Protects your mouth
- Is easy to use
- Is safe
- Makes braces easier to live with
Don’t forget to always have wax with you! If you want to learn more about tooth care, check out our guide to hard soft night guard for teeth protection at night.
