Is orthodontic wax edible? What would happen if you accidentally swallow it? These are common questions many people face when they first start using orthodontic wax. The wax is used to prevent fixed orthodontic appliances from irritating or injuring the soft tissues inside the mouth. There’s always a chance that the wax might come loose and be swallowed accidentally. Below, we’ll give a clear answer to this question and also explain the most important things to keep in mind before, during, and after using orthodontic wax.
Swallowing Orthodontic Wax
It’s fairly common for patients to accidentally swallow small pieces of orthodontic wax. However, you can greatly reduce the chances of this happening by following a few simple tips which we’ll mention below. If we want to give a short answer, it’s this: Orthodontic wax isn’t meant to be eaten, but accidentally swallowing small amounts usually doesn’t cause any serious problems.
When Can Swallowing Orthodontic Wax Be Harmful?
Repeatedly swallowing orthodontic wax, whether by accident or on purpose, may lead to digestive issues, especially constipation. Orthodontic wax is made from medical-grade, non-toxic materials. Still, its intended purpose is simply to prevent irritation and sores caused by orthodontic appliances inside the mouth, not to be ingested regularly.
Reasons Why Orthodontic Wax Gets Swallowed
Most of the time, swallowing orthodontic wax happens because a loose piece gets accidentally ingested. The wax may come off for several reasons, including:
- Not removing the wax before eating.
- Improper placement or defective wax on the fixed bracket.
- Not replacing the wax when needed.
- The wax loosening because you keep touching it with your tongue or teeth.
- Applying wax on a wet or dirty surface.
- Moving your jaw too much right after applying the wax (like talking immediately).
- Drinking hot beverages.
Important Tips to Prevent Swallowing Orthodontic Wax
To avoid swallowing orthodontic wax, the most important step is learning how to apply and use it correctly. If you keep dealing with this issue, it’s very likely that you’re not using or placing the orthodontics wax properly. Following the tips below can help:
- Remove the wax from your brackets before eating.
- After applying the wax, avoid moving your jaw for a short time.
- Replace the wax regularly.
- Clean and dry the area before applying new wax.
- Make sure the wax is placed correctly and firmly in position.
- Avoid touching the wax with your tongue (whether out of habit or anxiety).
Keeping wax in your mouth for long periods increases the risk of it coming off and being swallowed accidentally. It can also lead to plaque buildup and infections. The best time to apply fresh wax is after meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), after drinking hot liquids, and whenever the wax becomes deformed, dirty, or loses its stickiness.
Side Effects of Swallowing Orthodontic Wax
Serious side effects from swallowing orthodontic wax usually occur only when someone swallows a large amount of wax or repeatedly swallows small pieces. This is more common in children, who may not use the wax as carefully. The following symptoms can result from frequent or excessive swallowing of orthodontic wax:
- Mild digestive discomfort: bloating, stomach heaviness, or nausea.
- Temporary constipation: orthodontic wax isn’t digestible and can slow bowel movements.
- Intestinal blockage: rare, but can happen in children or people with existing digestive issues.
- Gastrointestinal infection: caused by swallowing contaminated wax.
Mild stomach discomfort or heaviness can usually be relieved by drinking plenty of fluids and eating foods with natural laxative properties. However, if symptoms become severe or even mild discomfort continues, you should see a doctor.
Final Word
Orthodontic wax is not meant to be eaten. But if you accidentally swallow it a few times, there’s usually no need to worry. Still, you should avoid swallowing it because it can cause digestive issues ranging from mild to serious. Orthodontic wax is mostly made of non-digestible materials, and its purpose is to protect the soft tissues of the mouth, not to be ingested. To prevent accidental swallowing, it’s important to apply the wax correctly and replace it at the right time.
