Braces are busy working to create your perfect smile—but they also give cavities extra places to hide. That’s why flossing every single day is more important than ever during orthodontic treatment!
The Kids Teeth team has a few great suggestions to make flossing with braces easier:
- Floss threaders – A simple loop that you can add to your favorite floss that helps you guide floss under the wires.
- Super floss – Stiff on one end for threading, spongy in the middle for cleaning around brackets, and regular floss on the other end.
- Orthopick – Handy plastic floss handles that are designed for braces. They are quick and convenient, but don’t always fit under every bracket.
Floss threaders and Superfloss both help you get floss under braces, but they work a little differently. A Floss Threader works like a needle and thread. You attach it to your favorite floss and guide it under the wire.
Superfloss is a ready-to-use product with everything built in – a stiff end to thread, a spongy middle to sweep away debris, and regular floss at the other end.
No matter which one you use, the technique is the same: thread the floss away from the gumline, curve it into a gentle “C” shape around the tooth, and move it up and down to clear away plaque and food particles.
Orthopick’s are specifically designed to fit under brackets without any hassle. Just be careful not to force it into spaces it does not fit! Although convenient, they sometimes need to be supplemented with the other types of floss mentioned above.
Each method is easy to use and very effective when used properly. The key is to find the one that works best for you at home—and stick with it daily.
Helpful Reminders:
Flossing with braces doesn’t just protect your teeth from cavities now, it also protects your investment, leaving you with a healthy smile once the braces come off!
Floss daily and don’t forget to continue with regular dental cleanings every 3-6 months while in orthodontic treatment! Call us and schedule your appointment today and we can walk you through these steps during your cleaning – (843) 216-5879.
Follow us on Instagram to watch step-by-step videos on how to floss with braces videos and how to brush with braces or follow step-by-step instructions on the KT Blog.