Flossing is an essential part of oral hygiene, but when you have braces, it can seem like a difficult task. However, flossing with braces is not only possible but incredibly important for keeping your teeth and gums healthy throughout your orthodontic treatment. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the steps of flossing with braces, provide helpful tips, and show you how to care for your smile while undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Why Flossing with Braces is Important
Braces create small spaces between your teeth and wires, making it easier for food particles and plaque to get trapped. If you don’t floss regularly, this buildup can lead to gum disease, cavities, and even bad breath. Flossing helps remove food debris and plaque that your toothbrush might miss, ensuring your teeth and gums remain healthy throughout the course of your treatment.
For more information on maintaining oral hygiene while wearing braces, check out our other helpful resources on keeping your smile bright and clean.
Using Floss Threaders for Easy Access
One of the most common tools used for flossing with braces is a floss threader. A floss threader is a small, flexible plastic tool that helps thread the floss behind the wires of your braces. Here's how to use it:
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Step 1: Cut a piece of floss (about 18 inches long) and thread it through the floss threader.
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Step 2: Insert the threader under the wire of your braces and pull the floss through.
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Step 3: Hold the ends of the floss and gently slide it between your teeth, just like you would with regular floss.
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Step 4: Repeat the process between each tooth.
If you’re looking for ways to maintain healthy teeth, you might also find our post on how to care for your Invisalign aligners helpful for similar concerns regarding alignment treatments.
Using Orthodontic Floss or Waxed Floss
When flossing with braces, it's essential to choose the right kind of floss. Orthodontic floss is designed with a stiff end, making it easier to thread between the brackets and wires. Waxed floss is another good option, as it’s less likely to fray while working between the tight spaces of your braces.
To floss with orthodontic floss:
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Step 1: Take a piece of orthodontic floss and insert the stiff end under the wire.
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Step 2: Gently slide the floss between your teeth, using a back-and-forth motion to remove any debris or plaque.
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Step 3: Be sure to floss both sides of each tooth and remove the floss carefully.
This method is especially effective for cleaning around your brackets and wires. Regular flossing is crucial for preventing tooth decay while wearing braces, so make it part of your daily routine.
Try a Water Flosser for Braces
Another great option for flossing with braces is using a water flosser. A water flosser, such as a Waterpik, uses a stream of pulsating water to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and around your braces. It’s an excellent alternative or supplement to traditional flossing and can be easier for some people to use, especially those with tight spaces between their teeth.
To use a water flosser:
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Step 1: Fill the water flosser with warm water and set the pressure to a comfortable level.
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Step 2: Lean over the sink and place the tip of the flosser at the gum line.
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Step 3: Turn the water flosser on and guide the stream of water along the gum line and between your teeth, focusing on areas around your braces.
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Step 4: Move to each section of your mouth, ensuring you clean all areas around your braces.
Water flossers are a great addition to your oral care routine, especially if you're concerned about maintaining gum health. If you’re looking for more ways to protect your gums, you might also be interested in our post about how to prevent gum disease.
Flossing Tips for Braces
Here are a few additional tips to make flossing with braces easier:
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Floss Frequently: Aim to floss at least once a day, preferably at night, to remove food and plaque buildup that accumulates throughout the day.
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Be Gentle: While it’s important to clean between your teeth thoroughly, be gentle to avoid damaging your braces or irritating your gums.
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Use a Mirror: Use a mirror when flossing to ensure you're properly cleaning around each bracket and wire.
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Floss Before Brushing: Flossing before brushing allows you to remove plaque and food particles, so your toothbrush can more effectively clean your teeth afterward.
If you’re looking for more advice on caring for your oral health, don’t forget to check out our guide to teeth whitening or how to treat a swollen gum around one tooth for additional tips on maintaining a healthy smile.
The Importance of Regular Dental Checkups
While flossing with braces is essential, regular dental checkups are equally important. Your dentist or orthodontist can ensure that your braces are properly adjusted, monitor your oral health, and offer guidance on improving your flossing technique. Regular cleanings are crucial to maintaining gum and tooth health during your orthodontic treatment.
If you're ready for your next dental cleaning or need an orthodontic consultation, schedule an appointment with us today to keep your smile in top condition!
Keep Your Smile Healthy with Proper Flossing Techniques
Flossing with braces may take a little extra effort, but it’s worth it to maintain good oral hygiene throughout your orthodontic treatment. By using the right tools, such as floss threaders or a water flosser, and following the right techniques, you can ensure that your teeth and gums stay healthy and clean.
If you need more guidance on orthodontic care, don’t hesitate to explore our Invisalign services or schedule a consultation to learn more about your options for achieving a straight, healthy smile. At Flossy Smiles, we're here to help you every step of the way.