I totally get the wax vs. silicone debate. For me, the regular wax is fine if I really dry the spot first—like, I’ll literally use a tissue to make sure it sticks. Silicone did last longer, but it always felt like I had a wad of gum stuck in my mouth. Maybe my cheeks are just sensitive, but sometimes the “less is more” thing works better for comfort. That said, nothing’s worse than biting into a sandwich and realizing your wax just disappeared...
That disappearing wax mid-bite is the worst... I always tell people, if you’re using wax, dry the area as much as possible—like you said, tissue works great. If you ever notice it keeps vanishing during meals, sometimes breaking off a smaller piece and molding it tightly can help it stay put a bit longer. I’m curious, have you tried those dental silicone strips that are thinner? Some folks find them less bulky than the gum wad feeling, but I know everyone’s cheeks are different. Ever had a wire actually poke through the wax and still stab you? That’s when things get really fun...
I’ve tried those silicone strips, and honestly, I don’t get the hype. They’re pricier than regular wax, and for me, they just slide off even faster—especially if I’m eating anything remotely warm. The regular wax is way more affordable and does the trick most of the time if you dry the spot well. But yeah, when a wire pokes through? That’s when I start questioning my life choices... I’ve ended up using a nail clipper (sterilized, obviously) to snip the wire at home once because I just couldn’t wait for my next appointment. Not ideal, but desperate times.
But yeah, when a wire pokes through? That’s when I start questioning my life choices...
Couldn’t agree more—nothing like a rogue wire mid-bite to make you rethink every snack decision. I’ve seen folks come in with some pretty creative DIY fixes. Not gonna lie, I once had a patient use a pencil eraser as a buffer. Wax is still my go-to, but only if you dry the spot like you’re prepping for surgery. Those silicone strips… yeah, they’re like expensive slip-n-slides.
I’ve always wondered if the wax is really doing much or if it’s just a placebo for my peace of mind. I’ve tried both the standard orthodontic wax and those silicone strips, and honestly, I keep going back to wax even though it never seems to stay put for long. Has anyone else found something that actually sticks through a meal? Or do we all just accept that mid-meal wire jousting is part of the experience...
