4 Tips for Flossing with Braces
Looking for information on how to floss while wearing braces? Flossing is an important oral care technique to utilize in order to ensure oral health concerns do not develop. Unfortunately, however, all too many braces patients put off flossing properly as it can be more difficult to do so. In addition, flossing incorrectly with braces may damage them and result in the need for a visit to the orthodontist.
How to floss with braces
Although it can be more challenging to floss effectively with braces, knowing how to do so properly can ensure you keep your teeth healthy and get rid of any food particles that become trapped. The following are four useful tips for flossing while wearing braces.
1. Try a floss threader
Many dentists recommend using a floss threader when flossing with braces. A floss threader makes the process easier by allowing patients to pass floss through the teeth without affecting the wire of the braces in any manner. WIthout a floss threader, getting the floss in between harder to reach teeth can be difficult, and it is simply much easier and has less of an effect on the braces to use a floss threader.
2. Thread behind the wire
One of the more important tips is to thread the floss behind the wire of the braces. In order to accomplish this, you need to slide the floss on the other side of the braces, and then proceed to floss between the teeth. Most who floss incorrectly with braces may try to go through the teeth first without considering the braces wire, which may cause them to pull on the wire or just floss ineffectively, and this can be avoided by threading behind the wire first.
3. Floss up and down
Another important tip when it comes to flossing with braces is to go up and down, rather than side to side. It is more natural for many to go side to side when flossing, and it is not necessarily a bad technique when braces are not involved. However, for those who are wearing braces, it is important to floss in up-and-down motions in order to ensure the wire is not tugged on.
4. Go slowly and do not rush
It is important to take your time while flossing with braces, and one of the more common mistakes people make is trying to get the job done too quickly. The fact of the matter is, flossing is not the most fun experience in the world, but doing a good job can ensure teeth and gums remain healthy and the braces treatment is as effective as possible. Be sure to go slowly and floss carefully between teeth.
Talk to an orthodontist about braces
If you are considering braces and want to learn more about whether they can help you and how to care for teeth properly while wearing them, consult with us today and schedule a time to visit with us. We can guide you through each step of the process and ensure your teeth remain healthy during treatment.
Request an appointment here: https://fitsmilesortho.com or call FitSmiles Orthodontics at (714) 782-0217 for an appointment in our Tustin office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Braces in Tustin, CA.
Related Posts
Invisalign® is a great option for patients who have issues with their teeth alignment. Read on to learn about dietary restrictions while undergoing Invisalign treatment. The aligner trays are removable, which means patients can take them out when it is time to eat or brush their teeth. It is also easy to brush your teeth…
While many people want to undergo Invisalign® treatment, they must determine if they are good candidates for the teeth straightening option. Nevertheless, this sleek system is a popular alternative to traditional braces for teens and adults. This article reviews some of the indications that Invisalign may work for you.Invisalign is a system of transparent aligner…
Considering Invisalign®? Read on to learn more about this discreet teeth-straightening treatment. Traditional metal braces are the first thing that comes to our minds when we think about orthodontic treatment. Yet, more and more people are shying away from braces because the metal wires and brackets tend to attract unwanted attention to our teeth. Invisalign…
You might be deciding between clear braces and metal braces. After all, you want to look good and feel good by fixing your misaligned teeth. Part of feeling good is aesthetics. If you want to feel good not only after you get braces but also while wearing them, you should consider clear braces for aesthetic…