Ulcers, rubbing and wax

Lips and cheeks are meeting brackets for the first time, and until they toughen up over a couple of weeks they can rub raw in a spot or two. Wax over the bracket stops the rubbing; warm salt-water rinses settle the sore spot. After the first fortnight the mouth adapts and this mostly stops happening.

Using wax

1. Find the culprit

   Run your tongue or a clean finger along the braces. The bracket or wire end that catches is the one to cover.

2. Dry it

   Dab the bracket with a tissue. Wax does not stick to a wet surface.

3. Roll and press

   Pinch off a pea-sized piece, roll it into a ball, and press it firmly over the bracket so it flattens into a smooth bump.

4. Replace as needed

   It comes off with eating and brushing. Put a fresh piece on. Swallowing a bit is harmless.

Settling an ulcer

Rinse with warm salt water two or three times a day, keep wax over whatever caused it, and avoid sharp, salty or acidic foods for a day or two. Most ulcers from rubbing heal in three to five days. A pharmacist can suggest a soothing gel if you would like one.