Having a mouth full of brackets and wires can make flossing seem like a challenge you’d find on Mission Impossible. How can you be expected to string floss between each one of your teeth when there is so much going on inside your mouth? Millions of people have or have had braces -- and they have all learned to floss. It is definitely possible once you get in a little practice.
So, if you are wondering how to floss with braces. Let’s jump in.
Flossing with Braces
The wire that connects to all the brackets throughout your mouth is what makes flossing with braces so tough because you can no longer just slide the floss up like you normally would. Instead, you have to slip the floss behind the arch wire and then pull the floss between the teeth. You have to do this for each tooth, working your way around your mouth.
The process will seem time-consuming and tedious at first, but it will get easier the more you do it. You should be flossing at least once per day.
Flossing Methods and Tools
When it comes to flossing, it is not necessarily a one-size-fits-all job. There are many different types of floss and flossing tools on the market. Some of these work better than others at cleaning your teeth and keeping your mouth healthy.
Traditional dental floss comes in multi-strand or single-strand, as well as waxed or non-waxed. While all of them will likely do the job, you are looking for the type of floss that will help you to glide between teeth and around braces easily and without catching on the brackets or wires. You should opt for a single-strand, waxed floss for the easiest way to get the job done.
A floss threader can be a helpful tool in getting the floss under the arch wire. Threaders are sturdy yet flexible pieces of plastic that look similar to a large needle and can easily pass dental floss between two teeth without the braces getting in the way.
Water flossers (a.k.a. oral irrigators) are also very common as they don’t require having to maneuver actual floss in and around the braces. These tools use high-power pressured water to clean the areas between the teeth.
Why Flossing is So Important
Every time you eat, food particles and bacteria can make their way into the crevices within your mouth. And, that includes between your teeth. It will continue to hide out here - untouchable with a toothbrush. Throw in braces with a lot of places to hide and you need to floss more than ever.
If the bacteria and food particles aren’t removed, it can lead to a negative impact on your oral health. You may find yourself facing issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
Flossing with Braces at Hass Family Orthodontics
At Hass Family Orthodontics, we know there are things about your life and routine that change when you decide to invest in your smile with braces. And we are here to make it as easy and as smooth as possible - even teaching you how to floss effectively with your braces.
To learn more or to get started on your orthodontic treatment, call Hass Family Orthodontics today at 828-464-5300. Or, request an appointment online.