I remember when I first got my braces, wax was my only hope, but it always fell off mid-snack (or just melted away). Has anyone tried these newer gels or strips? Do they actually stick better than wax, or is it just another gimmick? Curious if this stuff is worth the hype or if it’s back to saltwater rinses and toughing it out.
I’ve been eyeing those comfort gels too, but honestly, I’m super skeptical. Wax is cheap and at least you know what you’re getting, even if it’s a pain (literally) when it falls off every time you eat something warm or chewy. My ortho mentioned one of those gels, but the price tag kinda scared me off—like, is it really worth dropping $10+ for a tiny tube that might not even last a week? I’d hate to waste money if it’s just another thing that disappears after two bites of toast.
Has anyone actually compared the gel or strips side-by-side with wax for a few days? I’m curious if they’re less messy or if they just end up gunking up your brackets. Also, do they taste weird? I’m all for comfort but not if it means paying more and still having to do saltwater rinses every night...
Yeah, I totally get the hesitation. I tried one of those gels for a few days when my mouth was really sore, and honestly, it felt nice at first but didn’t last much longer than wax once I started eating. The taste wasn’t awful, just kind of bland. Still had to do saltwater rinses at night because the irritation didn’t magically disappear. For the price, I’m not sure it’s worth it unless you’re desperate for something new. Wax is messy but at least it’s cheap and you know what you’re in for.
I’ve tried a couple of those gels too, and honestly, I had pretty much the same experience. The first application felt soothing, but after a meal or even a drink, it was kind of pointless—just washed away like nothing happened. I kept going back to the old-school wax since it’s cheap and you can stick it on again and again without worrying about running out in a week.
I do wish these companies would be a bit more upfront about how temporary the relief actually is. It’s not like you’re going to get through a whole day at work or school with just one swipe of gel. Saltwater rinses are still my go-to when things get really rough... not glamorous, but they help.
For what it costs, I’d rather spend that money on extra wax or maybe a soft-bristle toothbrush. Maybe the gels will get better eventually, but right now they just don’t seem worth the hype.
I totally get where you’re coming from about the gels not lasting. I tried one of those “miracle” strips after a particularly rough adjustment, and it felt nice for maybe an hour—then lunch happened and it was gone. Wax isn’t perfect, but at least you know what you’re getting. Still, I’m holding out hope that someone will invent something that actually stays put through a meal. Until then, saltwater and patience seem to be the real MVPs.
