How to Floss with Braces: A Guide to Healthy Teeth and Gums
If you have recently gotten braces, congratulations on taking the first step toward a straighter, healthier smile! However, maintaining good oral hygiene while wearing braces is of the utmost importance. One of the most significant aspects is learning how to floss with braces.
Why Flossing is Important if You Have Braces
Flossing is an essential part of oral hygiene as it removes plaque and bacteria that can accumulate between your teeth and gums. This is especially important with braces because the brackets and wires can trap food particles and plaque, making it harder to clean your teeth properly. If left on the teeth, plaque can lead to tooth decay, gum disease and unsightly spots on your teeth.
How to Floss with Braces: Essential Techniques
There are a few different flossing techniques you can use when you have braces. Below are a few of the most common options. However, you should always speak with your orthodontist about the most efficient flossing technique for you.
Traditional Flossing
This method involves using a piece of floss and threading it through the space between your teeth and gums. To do this with braces, you will need to thread the floss under the wire of your braces and then gently move the floss up and down the side of each tooth.
Floss Threader
A floss threader is a small, plastic device designed to thread floss under the wire of your braces. Some people find using this tool makes flossing easier and more efficient.
Water Flosser
A water flosser uses a stream of water to flush out food particles and plaque between your teeth and gums. This can be a good option if you find traditional flossing difficult with your braces.
Interdental Brush
An interdental brush is a small brush used to clean between your teeth and gums. They are usually designed to be used with braces and can be a great option for people who find traditional flossing difficult.
Tips for Flossing with Braces
- Be gentle: When flossing with braces, it is important to be gentle as you don’t want to damage your braces or gums.
- Take your time: Flossing with braces may take a bit longer than usual, so take your time with the process. Make sure to clean each tooth thoroughly.
- Floss after every meal: To keep your teeth and gums healthy while wearing braces, it is important to floss after every meal.
- Remember to brush: Flossing is important, but it is not a substitute for brushing. Make sure to brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
- Visit your orthodontist regularly: Your orthodontist will be able to check for any potential issues with your braces and give you advice on how to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Flossing with braces may take a bit more effort, but it is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene. By following these tips and techniques, you will be able to keep your teeth and gums healthy while you straighten your smile.
Remember that it’s important to visit your orthodontist regularly and use the proper oral hygiene tools and techniques to maintain the health of your teeth and gums while you have braces.
Questions About Braces? Visit Smiles 4 Keeps!
If you have any questions about braces or oral hygiene, the team at Smiles 4 Keeps is here to help. Our dentists and orthodontists are experienced in all aspects of oral care, so we can provide personalized advice for your unique needs. Contact us today to learn more!