Is orthodontic wax edible? What happens if you swallow orthodontic wax? People who start using orthodontic wax often face these kinds of questions. Orthodontic wax is used to prevent the damage of the fixed orthodontic device to the tissues inside the mouth. There is always the possibility of wax separation and unintentional swallowing of it. In the following, we will answer this question in a special way. We also state the most important points that must be observed before, during, and after using orthodontic wax.

eating orthodontic wax

There is always a possibility of patients accidentally swallowing or eating orthodontic wax. Of course, you can prevent this from happening to a large extent by doing a few simple tips that are given below. If we want to give a short answer to this question, it is: Orthodontic wax is not edible and swallowing small amounts, which are often unwanted, does not cause serious problems.

When can eating orthodontic wax be dangerous?

Eating Orthodontics can cause gastrointestinal diseases, especially constipation, as a result of repeated unintentional or intentional swallowing. This wax is medical grade and is made of non-toxic materials. However, the main purpose of its design is to prevent the creation of inflammation and wounds in the tissues inside the mouth by the orthodontic device.

reasons for eating orthodontic wax

Eating orthodontic wax often happens as a result of unintentionally swallowing detached wax. The reason for wax separation from its place can be the following:

• Not removing the wax from the mouth before eating.
• Incorrect installation or defect of wax on bracket or wire fixed orthodontics.
• Not replacing the wax on time.
• loosening of wax due to repeated contact of the tongue or teeth with it.
• Being wet or having dirt in the place where the wax is installed.
• Lots of jaw movements immediately after installing the wax (such as talking).
• Drinking hot liquids.

Important tips to avoid swallowing orthodontic wax

In order to avoid eating and swallowing orthodontic wax, first of all, you should learn the correct way to install and use orthodontic wax. If you suffer from this problem frequently, it is likely that you are not aware of how to use and correctly install orthodontic wax. Observing the following points can help you in this field:

• Remove the wax from the orthodontic brackets before eating.
• After installing the wax, do not move your jaw for a short time.
• Change the wax on time.
• Clean and dry the wax installation site before using the wax.
• Make sure the wax is properly installed in place.
• Don't touch the wax (due to habit or obsession).

Keeping the wax in the mouth for a long time increases the risk of it being detached and accidentally swallowed. It also leads to the risk of plaque formation and infection. The best time to install new wax is after eating (morning, noon, dinner), after drinking hot liquids, and when changing the shape of the wax or wax (getting contaminated, losing adhesive power).

Consequences of eating orthodontic wax

Serious side effects of eating orthodontic wax usually occur when the patient swallows a large amount of wax or repeatedly eats small pieces of wax. This may happen more in children who have less control and accuracy in using orthodontic wax. The following symptoms can be the result of eating too much orthodontic wax:

• Mild digestive discomfort: bloating, stomach heaviness, nausea.
• Temporary constipation: orthodontic wax is often not digestible and slows down bowel movements.
• Intestinal obstruction: rarely seen in children and people with digestive problems.
• Digestive tract infection: as a result of eating contaminated wax

Stomach heaviness and mild digestive discomfort can be solved by drinking liquids and foods with laxative properties. But in case of serious problems or continuing mild discomfort, you should see a doctor.

final word

Therefore, orthodontic wax cannot be eaten. But don't worry if you accidentally swallow orthodontic wax a few times. Orthodontic wax should not be eaten because it can cause mild to serious digestive problems. This wax is often made of indigestible materials and the main purpose of its production is to protect the tissue inside the patient's mouth. In order to prevent accidental swallowing of orthodontic wax, it is necessary to observe points such as its correct installation and timely replacement of the wax.