Maintaining good oral hygiene while wearing braces or other orthodontic appliances can be challenging. Over time, the wires and brackets can irritate the soft tissues in your mouth, causing discomfort and even minor injuries. To alleviate these issues, orthodontists often recommend using a product called orthowax.
What is orthowax?
orthowax is a soft silicone wax that is used to cover the sharp edges of braces or wires to prevent irritation and injury to the gums, cheeks, and lips. It is a non-toxic and safe product that can be easily applied and removed. orthowax is available in small containers or sticks and comes in a variety of colors to match your braces.
How to Use Orthowax
Using orthowax is simple and easy. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply orthowax:
1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the wax to prevent any bacteria from entering your mouth.
2. Take a small piece of orthowax and roll it into a ball between your fingers to soften it.
3. Place the softened orthowax over the area of the braces or wires that is causing irritation.
4. Use your fingers to mold the wax around the sharp edges, ensuring that it completely covers the area.
5. Press gently to secure the orthowax in place.
6. If the wax hardens and becomes uncomfortable, simply remove it by gently peeling it off and reapply a new piece.
Benefits of Orthowax
There are several benefits to using orthowax while undergoing orthodontic treatment:
1. Pain Relief: Orthowax provides a cushion between the braces or wires and your soft tissues, reducing pain and discomfort caused by irritation.
2. Protection: Orthowax protects the delicate tissues in your mouth from being scratched or injured by the sharp edges of braces.
3. Comfort: By covering the sharp edges of braces, orthowax allows you to eat, speak, and smile comfortably without worrying about mouth injuries.
4. Convenient: Orthowax is small and portable, making it easy to carry with you wherever you go for quick relief whenever you need it.
5. Customizable: Orthowax comes in different colors, allowing you to choose a shade that matches your braces for a more discreet appearance.
When to Use Orthowax
You may need to use orthowax in the following situations:
1. Wire Irritation: If a wire on your braces comes loose and starts poking your cheeks or lips, apply orthowax to cover the sharp edge until you can see your orthodontist for a repair.
2. Broken Brackets: If a bracket on your braces breaks or becomes loose, cover it with orthowax to prevent it from cutting your mouth until you can get it fixed.
3. New Braces: When you first get braces, your mouth may take some time to adjust to the new appliances. Use orthowax to alleviate any initial discomfort until your mouth toughens up.
4. Sports Activities: If you participate in sports or physical activities, wearing orthowax can protect your mouth from injuries caused by accidental hits to the face.
5. Orthodontic Appointments: If you have a long wait between orthodontic appointments and experience discomfort, orthowax can provide temporary relief until you see your orthodontist.
In conclusion, orthowax is a valuable tool for anyone undergoing orthodontic treatment to manage pain and discomfort associated with braces or other appliances. By using orthowax, you can protect your mouth from injuries and enjoy a more comfortable orthodontic experience. Make sure to follow the instructions on how to use orthowax properly to maximize its benefits.