Flossing is a crucial part of maintaining good oral health, but it becomes even more important when you have braces. If you’re not careful and don’t clean your teeth well, food particles can easily get trapped – creating a breeding ground for bacteria. So, the answer to the common question, “Do I have to floss with braces?” is a resounding yes! Regularly flossing with braces offers several benefits:
Prevents plaque buildup
Plaque is a sticky film that harbors bacteria. Flossing removes plaque from between teeth and under the gumline, preventing cavities and gum disease.
Reduces gum inflammation
Proper flossing helps keep your gums healthy and prevents gingivitis, a condition that causes redness, swelling, and bleeding.
Fresher breath
Food particles trapped between teeth can cause bad breath. Flossing removes these particles, leaving your breath feeling minty fresh.
The Importance of Flossing for Braces
To ensure that your Invisible Braces treatment progresses smoothly, it’s important to floss regularly to prevent plaque buildup. If you don’t floss regularly, you may face these unpleasant issues.
Tooth decay
Plaque left unchecked can eat away at tooth enamel, causing cavities.
Gum disease
If plaque isn’t removed, it can harden into tartar, which irritates the gums and can lead to gum disease. In severe cases, gum disease can damage the bone that supports your teeth.
Delayed Invisible Braces treatment
Poor oral hygiene can slow down your Invisible Braces treatment, and may lead to additional refinements required, as advised by your treating dentist.
Choosing the Right Flossing Tools for Braces
Several flossing tools can help you maintain a clean smile with braces:
Traditional dental floss
This is a budget-friendly option, but it may be difficult to reach specific areas of your mouth with traditional dental floss.
Dental floss picks
These floss picks are convenient, and can help remove any unwanted food particles easily after a meal. However, they may not be as effective at reaching all areas of your teeth.
Water flossers
Water flossers use a pressurized stream of water to clean between teeth. They are a good option for people who find traditional flossing difficult, but they need to be used together with a good brushing and flossing routine.
Here’s a recommendation:
For most people with braces, maintaining a good oral care routine is essential to keeping plaque at bay. Incorporating an electric toothbrush or a water flosser into your routine is important in helping you to get a thorough clean, and remove any remaining food particles stuck in your teeth.
Tips and Tricks for Effective Flossing with Braces
Floss after every meal
This helps remove food particles before they have a chance to build up.
Start slow and build up
If your gums are sensitive, start by flossing once a day and gradually increase to twice a day.
Find a routine that works for you: Whether it’s in the shower or before bed, find a time that fits your schedule.
Seek a trusted professional's advice
If you’re struggling with flossing, a trusted dental expert can demonstrate proper technique and recommend tools that work best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will flossing with braces hurt my gums?
Flossing may cause some slight bleeding at first, especially if your gums are inflamed. This should improve with consistent flossing. For a gentler flossing experience, you can try Zenyum Waterflosser Pro to get a more thorough clean.
What if I can't floss with traditional floss?
Consider using a water flosser or dental floss picks.
Maintaining Optimal Oral Hygiene with Braces
Brushing and flossing regularly are essential for maintaining good oral health with braces, and we’ve got the tools to help you maintain your best smile!
