To floss with braces effectively, follow these steps:
- Use a floss threader or special orthodontic floss to get the floss behind the braces wire. A floss threader is a small plastic tool that helps guide the floss under the archwire easily
- Cut an 18- to 24-inch piece of waxed floss (waxed floss is preferred because it is less likely to tear or get stuck in brackets)
- Thread the floss through the eye of the floss threader, then insert the threader under the wire of your braces and pull the floss through
- Wrap the ends of the floss around your index or pointer fingers, leaving a few inches of taut floss between them for control
- Gently slide the floss between each pair of teeth using a back-and-forth motion. Curve the floss around each tooth in a "C" shape and gently slide it beneath the gumline to remove plaque and food particles
- Carefully pull the floss out from behind the wire without snapping it, which could dislodge the wire or brackets
- Repeat this process for every space between your teeth, re-threading the floss threader as needed
Additional tips:
- Floss after every meal to maintain oral health during orthodontic treatment
- If traditional flossing with a threader is difficult, consider using specialized orthodontic flossers like Platypus or Harp flossers, which are designed to fit under the wires without threading
- Using an interdental brush or water flosser can also help clean around brackets and wires
This method ensures thorough cleaning between teeth and around braces to prevent plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease during orthodontic treatment
