Flossing with Braces

Braces make everything a million times harder. It doesn’t have to with flossing. There are a variety of dental products that help you floss. Drs. Xu and Thomas recommend flossing daily, especially when you have braces. It’s the only way to clean your teeth and avoid cavities. That’s why Healthy Smiles Family Dental has put together this brief guide for flossing with braces. Learn more by contacting our office in Salem, OR.

 

Flossing and brushing are always a necessity. You’re supposed to floss every day. Braces shouldn’t hinder your dental routine. Invest in a Floss Threader. This is a handheld dental device that directs the floss under the wire. You can then grab the floss and use it normally. Do this for each of your teeth. Floss picks are another viable option. This is a small two-pronged device with floss between it. They are thin enough to fit under your wire. Place the prong between the two teeth to apply the floss.

 

The other important aspect of flossing with braces is the technique itself. Once the floss is under the wire, wrap it around the tooth in a “C” shape. Rub the floss up and down to clean the gums. Be thorough and clean gently around the brackets and wires.

 

Braces provide the perfect opportunity for bacterial growth. They create new areas for bacteria to culminate. Braces also catch a large amount of debris. Bacteria often feeds off this material as well. Your teeth aren’t immune to cavities when you have braces. Taking good care of them is important no matter what. Having braces requires extra attention and care.

 

Healthy Smiles Family Dental is located in Salem, OR. To schedule an appointment with Drs. Na Xu and Mark Thomas, visit the website or call 503-385-1185.