Maintaining good oral hygiene while wearing braces isn’t just important—it’s essential. Braces can trap food particles and harbor plaque, making teeth more susceptible to cavities and gum disease.
Regular flossing is one of the best ways to ensure that your smile stays healthy throughout your orthodontic treatment.
But flossing with braces is a little different than flossing without them, and it can seem a bit tricky at first. Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with this step-by-step guide on how to flow with braces, making it easier than you thought possible.
Let’s take a look.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Floss With Braces
Follow these simple steps to keep your teeth and gums in great shape while wearing braces:
1. Prepare Your Floss
Start by cutting about 18 inches of floss. Using the right type of floss matters—waxed floss works best because it’s less likely to get caught on your braces. A floss threader or a special orthodontic flosser can also make the process much easier.
2. Thread the Floss
Carefully thread the floss under the main wire of your braces. Loop the floss through a floss threader if needed to help guide it under the wire.
3. Floss Between the Teeth
Once the floss is under the wire, gently move it up and down between two teeth in a C-shape motion. Be mindful not to snap the floss, as it could damage your braces or irritate your gums.
4. Clean Close to the Gum Line
Move the floss down toward your gum line and clean the area where plaque often builds up. Avoid sawing motions that can hurt your gums.
5. Repeat the Process
When you’re done with one tooth, carefully remove the floss and thread it through under the wire again for the next pair of teeth. Don’t forget to use a fresh section of floss after a few teeth to maintain cleanliness.
6. Finishing Touches
Once you’ve flossed every tooth, rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash to remove any dislodged food particles or plaque.
7. Create a Routine
To maintain healthy teeth and gums, floss at least once daily, ideally before bedtime.
Why Flossing With Braces Is Important
Flossing serves a purpose that brushing alone can’t achieve—it helps remove stubborn plaque and food particles from areas that a toothbrush can’t reach. This is especially important when wearing braces, as the brackets and wires can create hard-to-reach areas that are prone to buildup.
Not flossing regularly can lead to more significant issues over time, including:
- Plaque Buildup: Braces create hard-to-reach areas that brushing alone can’t clean, allowing plaque to accumulate.
- Gum Disease: Plaque left along the gum line can cause inflammation and eventually periodontitis.
- Cavities: Food left trapped between teeth and wires can lead to decay and costly dental issues.
So it’s crucial to make flossing a part of your daily routine while undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Flossing With Braces
Even with the best intentions, some habits can make flossing less effective or even harmful while wearing braces. We’ve already shown you the best way to floss with braces, but there are some mistakes you’ll want to avoid as well!
Here’s what to watch out for and avoid:
- Skipping Flossing: It might be tempting to skip flossing because it feels time-consuming, but consistency is key to healthy teeth during orthodontic treatment.
- Using the Wrong Floss: Non-waxed floss or excessively thick floss can get stuck in the wires, making flossing frustrating.
- Rushing the Process: Flossing too quickly can lead to incomplete cleaning and could even irritate your gums.
- Snapping the Floss: Applying too much pressure with the floss can damage your braces or gums. Gently glide it instead.
Contact the Pendleton Orthodontics Team for Help
Flossing with braces may require extra effort, but it is vital for maintaining a healthy smile throughout your orthodontic treatment. By following the step-by-step guide on how to floss with braces and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure that your teeth and gums stay in great shape.
Worried your flossing technique isn’t quite up to par? Interested in learning the best oral hygiene practices while wearing braces? Here at Pendleton Orthodontics, we’re here to make your orthodontic experience as smooth as possible.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Personalized Care: Every patient is unique, and so is our approach to their oral health.
- Expert Guidance: Dr. Ryan Pendleton has over 15 years of orthodontic experience and is passionate about helping patients maintain radiant, healthy smiles.
- Convenient Scheduling: We work around your schedule to make appointments seamless and stress-free.
Take the next step toward your healthiest smile—Book a free consultation with Pendleton Orthodontics today! Our friendly team is here to support you every step of the way.