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Taking the Pain out of Braces

by BTM

Sat, 07 July 2018

Taking the Pain out of Braces

Specialist orthodontist Dr Supradeep Kumar Kamisetty, of Bahrain Specialist Hospital, explains how to use dental wax, dental silicone and lip protectors on orthodontic braces.

When you first get orthodontic braces, the brackets may rub the inside of your lips and gums, creating mouth sores. Although these are not dangerous, they are uncomfortable and can make it difficult to eat or speak. Fortunately, a little orthodontic dental wax, dental silicone, or an orthodontic lip protector can create a barrier between your braces and your mouth.

Orthodontic Dental Wax
Dental wax is simply a medical-grade soft wax that is safe to use in your mouth. If you’ve never used dental wax before, here are some instructions:
1. Break off a tiny piece of wax from the container.
2. Work it between your fingers to warm and soften it a little (to make it more shapeable).
3. Place the wax directly on the bracket that is causing the irritation. It will stick to the bracket and the tooth. You can use as much or as little dental wax as you need to be comfortable. Play around with it to establish what’s best for you.

Dental wax is non-toxic, so don’t worry if you swallow it. Wax in your mouth tends to break down over time, so you’ll probably need to re-apply more after eating a meal. Take off the wax before you brush your teeth, or it will get all over your toothbrush (it can be difficult to clean off). Individual containers of dental wax can be collected from your orthodontist.

Dental Silicone
Dental silicone is a little different. It lasts longer than regular dental wax. Your brackets must be extremely dry when you apply dental silicone or it will not stick. Some people love dental silicone and some prefer regular wax. If you have never used dental silicone, ask your orthodontist for a small packet, or buy just a small amount to start with. Sometimes you have to ‘hang in there’ until you perfect your technique to get the dental silicone to stick. But once you get the hang of it, you will enjoy the fact that it lasts longer in your mouth than regular dental wax. Some people use silicone earplugs (the type used for swimming) as dental silicone, but that is not necessarily advisable. That silicone has been approved to use in the ear, but not in the mouth.

Brace Guards and Brace Lip Protectors
In addition to dental wax, there are many types of lip protectors and brace guards available at dental offices. These products shield large portions of your brackets from your gums. Some lip protectors hook on to the wires between your brace brackets. Other types actually fit around the entire bracket, which totally shields the brackets from your mouth. Orthodontic lip protectors are great for people who do a lot of speaking, singing or who play a wind instrument. In fact, there is even a product where you can mould your own brace guard out of polymer material at home.

There is no need to suffer with cut-up gums and lips when you have braces. Use some dental wax or a lip protector and keep yourself comfortable.

Remember: Schedule regular cleanings and check-ups with your or your child’s orthodontist twice a year after the braces come off. Regular check-ins with the dentist means that any potential issues are caught early and are easier to fix.

 Call 17 812-000 or 17 812-222 or email [email protected]

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