Can You Sleep With Wax on Your Braces?

It’s a common question we get from our readers – can you sleep with wax on your braces?

The answer is yes, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

Dental wax is used to cover sharp edges on braces that may rub against the inside of your mouth and cause irritation – even at night.

But is it safe to sleep with wax on your braces?

Is it ok to sleep with wax on your braces?

Yes, it is safe to sleep with wax on your braces. Orthodontic wax is non-toxic, so if you accidentally swallow it, it won’t cause any harm. It provides a comfortable barrier between your braces and your mouth, so you can rest peacefully. Plus, it is helpful in relieving any tenderness of the cheeks or gums that can occur when first wearing braces.

The wax can be applied to any brackets, dentures or wires that tend to irritate the mouth, or it can be placed on all brackets for extra comfort. So don’t hesitate to use orthodontic wax to get a good night’s sleep with your braces.

How should I sleep with braces?

For a restful and comfortable sleep with braces, there are a few easy steps you can follow:

1. Try sleeping on your back. This can minimize the contact between your braces and your mouth, allowing your cheeks to rest without being pushed against your braces.
2. If you find yourself wanting to sleep on your stomach or side, use dental wax to cover any parts of your braces that may be rubbing against your cheeks or gums.
3. To prevent any irritation, it’s also a good idea to tie a scarf over your head or wear a soft microfiber towel to keep your hair from getting caught in your braces.

For example, when you first get braces you may feel some discomfort and soreness in your mouth. To help with this, you can sleep on your back, use dental wax, and tie a scarf or headband over your head. This will help keep your braces from irritating your cheeks and gums, allowing you to get a good night’s rest.

Editor’s note: It is like having a new lobe piercing – you should properly plan your night but is is OK

What are the benefits of sleeping with wax on braces?

1. Reduces friction between the archwire and teeth

Sleeping with dental wax on braces can reduce friction between the archwire and teeth by acting as a barrier between the braces and the mouth. This helps to protect the soft tissue from open cuts and sores and to provide immediate relief from broken wires or sharp edges.

It also helps to reduce pain caused by the dental appliances and dentures and allows the person to adjust to new braces more comfortably. To put it simply: sleeping with dental wax on braces can enable people to sleep more comfortably without feeling pain from the brackets and wires.

2. Reduces the risk of irritation and inflammation of gums

Sleeping with orthodontic wax on your braces can help reduce the risk of irritation and inflammation of your gums. The wax provides a protective layer that keeps the braces from scratching or irritating the soft tissue of your gums during the night.

It also helps reduce pain caused by braces, wires, or sharp edges, while providing immediate relief and protecting your mouth from bacterial infection.

3. Increases comfort during sleep

Sleeping with wax on braces can make wearing them more comfortable, resulting in a more restful sleep. When dental wax is applied to the braces, it acts as a cushion between the metal and the soft tissue of the cheeks and gums. This reduces the pressure and friction caused by the braces, which helps to alleviate any soreness and discomfort.

Additionally, the wax forms a protective barrier that prevents bacteria and food particles from getting stuck in the brackets or wires, further decreasing any irritation. With proper care and maintenance, dental wax can safely and effectively help orthodontic patients sleep more comfortably.

4. May increase the speed of orthodontic treatment

The use of orthodontic wax when sleeping with braces is an important part of treatment, as it helps to protect the inside of the mouth from damage and discomfort. Applying the wax regularly can also help to reduce the amount of time needed for treatment, as it prevents the brackets and wires from shifting or becoming loose.

As the wax reduces friction, it prevents the teeth from shifting back to their original positions, which can slow down the speed of treatment. You also can use a retainer for sleeping but not too long!

5. Provides a more peaceful sleep

Sleeping with wax on braces can greatly improve sleep for those who are adjusting to their braces. Dental wax is a non-toxic wax that can be applied to braces to provide relief from broken wires, sharp edges, and other irritations that can cause pain and discomfort.

It helps protect the soft tissue in the mouth from bacterial infection and open cuts, allowing for a more comfortable sleep.

What are the potential risks of using orthodontic wax?

Using orthodontic wax is generally very safe, however there are potential risks to be aware of.

• If the wax is not applied properly, it may not provide the desired relief, or it may cause further irritation.
• If orthodontic wax is left on for too long, it can create a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to tooth decay and gum disease or tooth extraction on the long run.
• If you swallow pieces of orthodontic wax, it could cause a choking hazard. To minimize these risks, it is important to apply the wax correctly, take it off if you eat, and practice good oral hygiene.
• Do not use it if you have whitening strips on for the night

How to use dental wax for sleeping with braces?

1. Before you go to bed, pull off a few pieces of orthodontic wax and place them over any brackets or wire ends that tend to irritate you.
2. You can also place some wax on all of your brackets for added relief.
3. The wax will act as a barrier between your braces and your mouth, which will allow you to sleep soundly.
4. Place wax over any brackets or wires that irritate your cheeks before getting into bed.
5. Clean your teeth and braces effectively every night according to your dentist’s recommendations.
6. Wear a nightguard to keep your teeth safe from grinding.

FAQs

Is it safe to sleep with wax on your braces?

Yes, it is safe to sleep with wax on your braces. Braces wax is made from non-toxic materials, so you can eat it safely if you accidentally swallow it. The wax provides a barrier between your braces and your mouth, helping you sleep soundly and wake up fully rested.

Not only is it safe to sleep with wax on your braces, it is also useful in helping to quickly toughen up the gums and cheeks which may be sore from the presence of the dental equipment.

How can you remove orthodontic wax?

Removing orthodontic wax is simple if you know the trick. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Take off the biggest chunk you can with your fingers
2. Ball up that chunk and use it to press into any remaining dental wax
3. Get all the bits
4. Then use a brush to push or pick out any bits
5. Rinse with water
6. Brush your teeth firmly
7. Dry the area of braces with a clean paper towel.
8. Pull off a piece of wax and roll it into a ball.
9. Press it over your braces where needed

How long can wax stay on braces?

Wax on braces can last a couple of days if taken care of properly. It is safe to leave wax on overnight, however it should be removed before eating or drinking. You should not reuse wax because it can contain bacteria and food particles. Wax can stay on for hours without falling off. It is made of non-toxic materials, so it is safe to eat if accidentally swallowed. You should brush your teeth and dry off the braces before applying the wax and wash your hands before rolling the wax into a ball shape. The wax should be replenished every two days and removed before eating to prevent food particles from getting stuck in the braces.

What if I swallow the wax at night?

If you accidentally swallow some wax while you sleep, there is no need to worry. Dental wax is non-toxic and won’t cause any harm. Your body will be able to process and get rid of the wax without any issue. Leaving wax on your braces overnight will also help protect your gums from irritation and discomfort due to the metal wires.

Can dental wax be used on dentures?

Yes, dental wax can be used on dentures which is especially handy when you sleep with your dentures in. Dentures are attached to the braces’ metal structure to keep them in place and stable, and when the metal comes loose and irritates the inside of your mouth, dental wax can be a lifesaver in alleviating the pain.

Additionally, dental wax can also be used for other dental emergencies, such as filling a hole caused by a lost filling, or covering a chipped or cracked tooth to keep the vulnerable interior of the tooth safe from further damage and tooth pain.

It is important to note that dental wax needs to be replaced twice a day and should not be kept in the mouth for longer than one day, as it increases the chances of developing oral germs and cavities.