When it comes to dental emergencies, none is more painful and frustrating than having a broken tooth. Not only can it cause discomfort and sensitivity, but it can also affect your ability to speak and eat properly. As such, it is a dental emergency that requires immediate attention and care.
However, what happens if you need a temporary solution to alleviate the pain and discomfort until you can visit a dentist? One such remedy that has gained popularity is the use of dental wax. The wax is said to be effective in protecting the damaged tooth and preventing the sharp edges from cutting your lip.
But can dental wax truly provide relief for a broken tooth, or is it just a myth? In this article, we will take a deep dive into dental wax and explore its use in addressing a broken tooth.
What is Dental Wax?
Dental wax, also known as orthodontic wax or dental relief wax, is a soft, biocompatible material that is used to provide temporary relief from discomfort caused by orthodontic appliances such as braces and retainers. The dental wax is typically made from a blend of natural wax such as paraffin or beeswax, and synthetic wax like microcrystalline wax. These materials are often mixed with other ingredients such as mineral oils or resins to improve malleability and adhesiveness.
Dental wax is primarily used to form a protective barrier between an orthodontic appliance such as braces, and the soft tissues of the mouth like the cheeks and lips. The wax is particularly useful during the initial phases of an orthodontic treatment as the brackets and wires can cause discomfort and minor cuts to the lips and cheeks.
The application of dental wax is fairly simple and do not require any professional to apply it. To use dental wax, follow these simple steps:
- Wash your hand with soap to remove all bacteria. If possible, wash with warm water as your warm had can soften the wax and make it more pliable.
- Pinch off a small piece of wax, about the size of a small pea.
- Roll the wax between your hand or fingers to warm it up and soften it. Shape it into a ball for easy application.
- Gently apply the wax on the area of the orthodontic appliance that is causing discomfort or irritation. Ensure that the wax sticks to the appliance and covers the entire spot. Note that it is not to be applied on the cheek or lip.
- If the dental wax is unable to adhere to the appliance or is too small, remove it and make a bigger ball.
- Replace the wax as needed. The typical dental wax starts to lose its adhesiveness within a day and needs to be replaced with a new one.
Will Dental Wax Work for Broken Tooth?
The answer is yes, dental wax will work as a temporary solution if you have a broken tooth. In fact, dentists have recommended the use of a dental wax to cover and protect the damaged area until you are able to visit the dental clinic and get professional treatment. It is also favored by many as dental wax is easily accessible in most drug stores and are inexpensive.
The procedure for the application of wax on a broken tooth is the same as when it is used on an orthodontic appliance. However, you must first clean the broken tooth with a soft toothbrush to remove any food particles. Ensure that the tooth is clean and dry before you apply the dental wax. Ensure that the sharp edges of the broken tooth is completely barricaded from the lips, cheeks and tongue.
However, it is essential to know that dental wax is not a proper treatment for a broken tooth. Firstly, if the wax is not applied properly, it may not stay in place. This can cause the wax to fall off and expose the jagged edges to the soft tissues of the mouth. Adding on, it is possible that poor hygiene can cause bacteria to get under the wax and into the tooth. This can lead to an infection and other medical complications. Last but not least, dental wax can interfere with eating and speaking as it affects the bite and speech. This is especially so if the wax is applied on the front tooth.
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In general, you should use a dental wax to cover your broken tooth for only a day or two. Address the issue by scheduling an appointment with your local dental clinic. A broken tooth may require various treatments depending on the severity of the break, such as dental bonding, a crown, or even an extraction in some cases. A dentist will be able to assess the severity of the situation and recommend the appropriate treatment to restore the tooth’s function and aesthetics.
Where to Buy Dental Wax?
Dental wax is a commonly used product and can be purchased in several places without needing a doctor’s prescription. Some of the places include pharmacies, health & wellness retailers, dental supply stores, supermarkets, and dental clinics.
However, if you are looking to purchase high-quality and reputable dental wax online, here are a few options recommended by dentists:
1. GUM Orthodontic Wax (Mint Flavor)
GUM Orthodontic Wax is specially designed to alleviate discomfort caused by orthodontic appliances, including braces, wires, auxiliary hooks, tubes, and ligatures. The wax is formulated with a refreshing mint flavor that provides a fresh and clean sensation. On top of that, it is packed with Vitamin E and Aloe Vera to provide the much needed relief in the even that there is a cut caused by the orthodontic appliance.
2. Fresh Knight Braces Wax (Flavorless)
Fresh Knight Braces Wax is formulated with a unique blend of natural, food-grade wax that makes it unscented and flavorless. It is effective in preventing and easing the pain and irritation caused by cuts from braces or aligners. Fresh Knight dental wax is not only great for braces and aligners, but it can also provide temporary relief for other dental emergencies, such as a lost crown, filling, or chipped tooth.
3. OrthoDots Clear Silicone Dental Wax (Flavorless)
OrthoDots Clear Silicone Dental Wax is a revolutionary dor made with high-quality, biomedical-grade silicone that makes it transparent and extremely moldable. In fact, it is 20 times more pliable and 17 times more transparent than most dental wax products in the market. This makes them virtually invisible and more comfortable to use for those who seek comfort and are conscious about their appearance. Lasttly, these clear dental wax can stay up to 24 hours, which is significantly longer than the traditional dental wax.
