Flossing is a great way to keep your teeth clean and healthy thoroughly. If practiced well, it can help you get rid of poor oral health and many other diseases linked to it. The right method to floss is the key to a positive oral health. Flossing becomes even challenging while your braces are in. The process is tricky, however, if you follow these simple steps, you can do it successfully:

• The first step to start is by rinsing off your mouth. This is done to flush out remaining food particles, if any.
• Brush your teeth every time you eat. If you fail to brush consistently, you will open up opportunities for poor oral health in the long run.
• Use a thin and waxed dental floss. A non-waxed floss gets caught on the braces and leaves shred between the bracket. Pull the floss up to the gum line to make sure that the plaque is removed properly. The amount of dental floss used should also vary slightly on the basis of size of mouth and hands.
• Floss with one hand a few inches behind one end. Place it above the main wire of braces to ensure that it does not get stuck.
• Once the floss is placed behind the wires, use your hands to move it up and down between the tooth. This is done up and down along the wires to remove food particles.
• Since braces multiply the chances of plaque accumulation, people with braces are required to brush their teeth after every meal.
• Use fluoride toothpaste or mouthwash that is fluorinated. This prevents the accumulation of white spots on teeth.
• An orthodontic floss threader is highly useful.
• Always use an electric toothbrush. They are proven to be much more effective than manual toothbrushes.

If you are facing issues flossing with a string, there are other methods that can be followed to keep your teeth and gums clean. You can also try interdental brushes that are made to get in small spaces around brackets and the gaps between the teeth. This is helpful while undergoing braces treatment.

Another interesting method is using a water flosser. Water flosser helps you easily remove plaque and bacteria build-up with your braces. It uses a water jet to gently clean the gaps between your teeth without irritating your gums. It is an effective method to keep your teeth clean while wearing braces.

Consult our orthodontist today and share your experience with flossing with braces. Also, they will help you identify and understand how you can maintain a great oral health using the right flossing techniques.

Book Appointment to find out which treatment might be best for you.