Many people find flossing somewhat difficult or awkward if they don’t do it regularly. Wearing traditional braces can make flossing even more of a challenge! However, it’s more important than ever to practice this healthy habit during your orthodontic treatment. Flossing clears out all the plaque and bacteria that can accumulate under your braces. This lowers your risk of serious oral health issues and ensures your teeth stay healthy and strong as they’re being straightened. Here are five practical ways to make flossing with braces easier.
1.) Start with Waxed Floss
As its name implies, waxed floss is coated in an ultra-thin layer of biocompatible wax. This type of wax is designed to slide between your teeth more easily and comfortably than just plain wax. In addition, it’s much less likely to get caught on your braces or become frayed.
2.) Use a Floss Threader
A floss threader is an essential tool for those with braces. This small stretch of plastic has a loop at one end that you pull your floss through. The other side is threaded between your teeth underneath your wires. Once you pull it through, you can grab the floss and clean this tight space. While this process needs to be repeated for every tooth, it’s the most effective way to clean out the parts of your smile that are most vulnerable to cavities and gum disease during orthodontic treatment.
3.) Try Out an Orthodontic Toothbrush
Some toothbrushes are designed specifically to clean around the wires and brackets of braces. These toothbrushes usually have slanted bristles that can reach behind your braces as you brush your teeth. Alternatively, you can try smaller interdental brushes, which are small enough to fit entirely behind your orthodontics.
4.) Consider Investing in a Water Flosser
A water flosser, or a water pick, uses a thin, steady stream of water to wash away particles on and around braces. Patients, parents, and orthodontists alike highly recommend water flossers for orthodontic patients because of how easy they are to use. Plus, the cool splash of water can ease aching and soreness that sometimes accompanies braces.
5.) Start Using Mouthwash
If you don’t already use mouthwash regularly, now is a great time to start! Mouthwash can easily wash away particles that may have been left behind by brushing and flossing. They also provide other benefits, like antiseptic properties to prevent gum disease and fluoride to keep your teeth strong. Some are even specifically designed for orthodontic patients!
Flossing with braces can be time-consuming and difficult at first, but don’t give up! This healthy habit will get easier and easier with practice and ensure that your smile stays healthy as it’s being straightened!
About the Practice
At Simply Orthodontics Webster, we’re proud to offer both cutting-edge services as well as optimized and reliable traditional treatments. Whether you or your child are interested in clear braces, pediatric orthodontics, or traditional braces, our team can help you achieve the happy, healthy smile you deserve. What’s more, we’ll be with you every step of the way during your treatment to answer your questions and ensure everything goes as smoothly as possible. To learn more about flossing with braces, we can be contacted online or at (508) 943-2100.