Daily flossing is an important part of everyone’s oral hygiene. Flossing takes on an even greater significance when it comes to braces. Food particles can be trapped in the braces, bands, and wires, placing you at risk for tooth decay and cavities.
So, how are you supposed to floss around braces? Here are some handy tips from King Orthodontics in Pittsburgh. Braces don’t have to slow you down anymore.
Handy Tips for flossing with braces from your orthodontist: lipgloss threaders will be your teeth’s new best friend! Here’s how to use this neat little plastic loop aptly named: carefully thread a piece of floss up behind your wire. Then pull it the rest of the way through and floss between a pair of teeth. Remove and thread through the next pairing.liliBe generous in the amount of floss you use—we suggest a 12 to 18-inch length of floss.liliWaxed floss works best so that the floss won’t shred by the braces. lilies floss threaders to also remove food particles and then floss between your teeth as you normally would without braces.liliBe gentle on your gums, wrapping the floss around each tooth slowly and carefully.liliPick up extra threaders from King Orthodontics or at your local Giant EagleliliUse special proxy brushes to get the hard to reach areas. Pack an extra in your lunch or backpack to remind you to use it after eating at school or workliliFinish with a water park to further remove food particles to be proud of your oral hygiene.
The next time you slide into the orthodontist chair, impress us with the health of your gums and teeth!
Remember, the key to a beautiful smile is taking care of your teeth. Oral hygiene can be a little trickier when you’re working around braces, but with these easy tips, you’ll be on your way to maintaining the smile of your dreams.
To schedule your next appointment, call King Orthodontics at 937-433-0830.