Relief of Soft-Tissue Irritation from Orthodontic Appliances

Although wax is customarily given to patients to relieve soft-tissue irritation from ortho­dontic appliances, many patients find it bother­some to change the wax after meals and brush­ing.^1,2 We have been able to prevent irritation with Fermit^*, a clear, light-cured adhesive used for temporary restorations of inlay preparations.

The Fermit is easily placed by molding the appropriate amount over the attachment with an index finger or a suitable instrument, then poly­merizing it with a halogen light for 40 seconds. The fingers should be coated with petroleum jelly when handling this sticky material.

Fermit is esthetically tooth-colored (Fig. 1), although it sometimes discolors after prolonged wear. It will stay in place until the patient's next visit, but is elastic enough to be removed easily with an explorer or scaler.