Maintaining clean teeth becomes vital with braces. Braces can trap food and plaque, which can lead to cavities or gum disease. Brushing alone won’t suffice; you need to floss daily. However, flossing with braces can prove challenging, which is where floss threaders come into play. Floss threaders simplify the process of cleaning between your teeth and braces.
In this guide, we’ll walk through how to use floss threaders. We’ll also cover why flossing with braces is essential.
What are Floss Threaders?
Flossing with braces isn’t the same as flossing regular teeth. The metal wires obstruct direct access to your teeth, making it difficult to reach between them with standard floss. Without proper flossing, food can get trapped around your braces, leading to plaque accumulation and increasing the risk of cavities or gum issues.
Floss threaders are small, flexible devices. They guide floss under the braces wire. Imagine a threader as a needle for floss. It helps maneuver the floss into tight spots. Floss threaders are affordable and simple to use.
Why Use a Floss Threader?
A floss threader lets you weave floss between the wires and teeth. It slips floss under the braces wire, allowing you to clear away plaque and trapped food. Using a threader safeguards your oral hygiene.
How to Use a Floss Threader
Here’s a guide on how to use floss threaders:
- Gather Your Supplies
You’ll need a floss threader and dental floss. Choose waxed floss to prevent snagging. Orthodontic floss can also be easier to handle.
- Insert the Floss into the Threader
Cut about 18 inches of floss. Insert one end of the floss through the threader loop. Pull it until a few inches of floss hang through the loop. The rest of the floss should dangle freely.
- Guide the Threader Under the Braces Wire
Carefully maneuver the threader under the wire of your braces. Slide it between the wire and your teeth, then pull the threader through so the floss glides under the wire.
- Floss Between Your Teeth
Once the floss is under the wire, you can start flossing. Grasp the floss between your fingers. Gently work it between your teeth. Move the floss up and down alongside each tooth. Be sure to reach just under the gum line.
- Repeat for Each Tooth
After flossing one tooth, remove the floss. Repeat the process for every space between your teeth. Each time, use the threader to insert the floss under the wire.
- Be Gentle
Handle the floss with care to avoid irritating your gums. Don’t force the floss. The aim is to lift plaque, not harm your gums.
- Take Your Time
Flossing with threaders for braces takes more time than usual. Don’t rush. Taking your time ensures thorough cleaning.
When to Floss
Floss at least once a day. Most people prefer flossing at night before bed. This way, you can purge the day’s food particles. If you notice food trapped in your braces after meals, you can choose to floss more often.
Why is Flossing with Braces Crucial?
Flossing with braces helps stave off tooth decay. Braces create nooks where food gets wedged. This trapped food encourages plaque buildup. Plaque can harden into tartar, which is much harder to remove and can inflame your gums.
Skipping flossing invites dental problems. Cavities can form, and gums may swell. These issues can delay orthodontic treatment, and in some cases, untreated gum problems can interfere with how your braces function.
How Long Does Flossing with a Threader Take?
Initially, using a floss threader may require more time than your usual routine, potentially taking 10 to 15 minutes for flossing. However, with practice, you’ll become quicker, and soon you’ll be able to floss your entire mouth in a shorter amount of time.
Tips for Flossing with Braces
Follow the following tips when flossing with braces:
Stay Consistent
Flossing regularly is key. Missing even a few days can spark plaque buildup. Make flossing a daily habit.
Use Orthodontic Floss
Orthodontic floss is designed for braces. It’s easier to work with than regular floss as it’s thicker and resists shredding. It is also best to use waxed floss over unwaxed floss for braces.
Try a Water Flosser
A water flosser helps flush out debris between teeth by spraying water that dislodges plaque and food. While water flossing cannot replace traditional flossing, it is a helpful tool. For the best results, use it in conjunction with a floss threader.
Learn Patiently
Learning to floss with braces needs patience. Don’t get discouraged if it seems difficult at first. Keep at it, and it will soon become easier.
Other Tools for Cleaning Braces
In addition to floss threaders, other tools that can help are:
- Interdental Brushes: These small brushes fit into the spaces between braces and teeth. They help clear away plaque and food particles.
- Proxabrushes: These are mini bottle-like brushes. They clean between wires and brackets.
- Mouthwash: Mouthwash rinses away the leftover food particles. Choose a mouthwash with fluoride to strengthen your teeth.
Common Flossing Mistakes
When using a floss threader for braces, avoid the following mistakes:
- Skipping Days: Do not skip flossing, as it allows plaque to take hold. Floss daily to prevent plaque accumulation.
- Being Too Rough: Don’t force the floss; it can hurt your gums. Flossing shouldn’t be painful.
- Using Too Little Floss: Ensure you use enough floss. About 18 inches of floss should be sufficient.
Conclusion
Flossing with braces is important for oral health. A floss threader simplifies the process of cleaning between the teeth and braces. By following these steps, you can maintain the best condition for your teeth and gums. Practice flossing daily to prevent dental issues, and over time, the process will become quicker and easier. Stick with your oral hygiene routine, and your smile will thank you.
Achieve healthier teeth and gums, even while wearing braces! Start incorporating floss threaders into your oral hygiene routine today, and follow our comprehensive guide to master the art of flossing. With these techniques, you can maintain a confident and radiant smile throughout your treatment.
At Dental On First, we prioritize your oral health and aesthetic goals. Our experienced cosmetic dentists specialize in providing personalized care tailored to your unique needs. We understand the challenges that come with orthodontic treatment, and we are committed to helping you navigate them with ease.
Don’t wait— book an appointment or contact us now to begin your journey to optimal oral health!