What should I do if my braces rub on my cheeks and lips?

Orthodontic treatment – is a long process of moving teeth, and during this time you need to be comfortable. But what to do if your braces rub your lips and cheeks?

If you have recently had braces fitted, this is normal. The mucosa of the lips and cheeks has been «accustomed» to contact with the smooth surface of the teeth, on which the archwire locks are now located. The sides of the brackets are the most commonly rubbed in the first few days, as they have special hooks built into them and are larger (due to the larger molars).

A special orthodontic wax is used to help the mucosa get used to the new conditions more gently and the locks rub less.

How to use orthodontic wax?

Wax is used to «close» the parts of the appliance that interfere the most. To do this, use a cotton disk or cotton bud to dry the bracket or hook, soften a small ball of wax in your fingers, and «stick» the wax onto the bracket. The wax will stay on the hardware until you start eating or drinking – after eating, the wax is replaced with a new one. If you accidentally swallow a bunch of wax, don't worry – the wax is food grade and contains no harmful substances for the body.

The process of adaptation to braces takes an average of 1 week, after which it is no longer necessary to use wax.

In what cases waxing will not help and you need to see an orthodontist?"

If you feel that there is something stabbing and sharp in the appliance. This could be the tip of the arch or ligatures, hooks and other elements. Sharp stabbing sensations while wearing braces (and even in the first few days) should absolutely not be present. Be sure to go for an unscheduled visit to the doctor! If it is impossible to get to an appointment in the near future, then as a temporary measure to protect the mucosa, be sure to use orthodontic waxes.