What’s your go-to after jaw surgery: wax, salt water, or just toughing it out?

I get what you mean about worrying if silicone might come loose and get swallowed. I had the same concern, but from what my surgeon told me, the small bits usually pass through without much trouble. Still, I was more stressed about keeping everything clean. With wax, I felt like it picked up every bit of food, but silicone seemed easier to rinse off. I’d just wash it with mild soap and water before using it. Maybe it’s just personal preference, but I found myself trusting silicone more for hygiene - though I totally get sticking with what feels safest for your kid.

I totally relate to the hygiene thing - wax always felt like a magnet for crumbs, and I was constantly picking bits out. Silicone was easier for me too, just a quick rinse and it didn’t get as gunky. I did worry about swallowing a piece at first, but my orthodontist said the same: it’ll pass if it happens. Still, I kept a close eye, especially with my youngest, just in case.

Salt water rinses were my other go-to. They helped with soreness and made everything feel cleaner, especially after meals. I know some folks just tough it out, but honestly, I’d rather deal with the hassle of cleaning silicone than risk irritation or infection. Everyone’s got their comfort zone though - my sister couldn’t stand the feel of anything in her mouth and just used salt water. Guess it’s all about what you can handle day-to-day.

I get the appeal of silicone, but I actually found it a bit too slippery for my taste - like, every time I tried to talk or eat, it’d shift around and I’d have to readjust. Wax was annoying with the crumbs, true, but at least it stayed put for me. Maybe I just never got the hang of silicone? Salt water rinses were a lifesaver though. My cousin swore by warm chamomile tea rinses instead - she said it soothed her gums more than salt ever did. Guess there’s no one-size-fits-all after jaw surgery...

I totally get what you mean about silicone - mine felt like a bar of soap in my mouth. I tried it for a day and just gave up because it kept sliding around. Wax was a crumb magnet, but at least it didn’t bail on me mid-sentence. Salt water rinses were my go-to, but I’ve never tried chamomile tea... kind of wish I had now. Honestly, I think I cycled through everything except just toughing it out - my patience isn’t that strong.

I totally relate to the silicone thing - mine just slipped everywhere and felt weirdly cold. Wax was messy for me too, especially if I tried to eat anything. Salt water rinses actually helped with soreness, though. Never thought of chamomile tea... does it really help with swelling?