Cleaning around brackets and wires can feel overwhelming. Orthodontic treatment introduces a complex network of appliances, creating numerous tiny spaces where food debris and plaque easily become trapped. This environment significantly increases the challenge of maintaining proper oral hygiene, requiring a modified and diligent cleaning routine. Adopting the right habits and tools will ensure your teeth remain healthy throughout your journey to a straighter smile.
Recommended Flossing Frequency
The answer to how often you should floss with braces is a minimum of once per day. This daily practice is necessary because plaque begins to harden into tartar within 24 to 36 hours, making it difficult to remove effectively.
Dental professionals often recommend flossing just before bedtime. This ensures the mouth is clean from food particles and bacteria accumulation before the extended period of lower saliva production during sleep. Focusing on one complete, thorough flossing session daily is the best way to prevent dental issues.
Essential Tools and Technique
Successfully flossing with braces requires moving the floss underneath the archwire, which is impossible with traditional manual flossing alone. A specialized tool called a floss threader is recommended. This small, flexible plastic loop guides the floss beneath the wire. Start with a piece of waxed floss, about 18 to 24 inches long, as the wax coating helps it slide easily and prevents shredding.
Using a Floss Threader
To begin, thread one end of the floss through the eye of the threader. Gently feed the pointed tip under the archwire and pull it through until the floss is positioned between two teeth. Once the floss is under the wire, remove the threader and wrap the ends of the floss around your index fingers for control.
Flossing Technique
Gently slide the floss between the teeth and curve it into a “C” shape around the side of one tooth. Move the floss up and down to clean the surface and slightly below the gumline. Repeat this action on the adjacent tooth surface before carefully pulling the floss out and unthreading it from behind the wire.
Alternative Tools
A water flosser is another helpful option. It uses a pressurized stream of water to dislodge plaque and food debris from around brackets and under wires. These devices are effective for individuals with braces.
Why Flossing is Non Negotiable
Neglecting to floss while wearing braces significantly increases the risk of developing decalcification and gingivitis. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, is easily trapped around the brackets. If plaque is not removed consistently, the bacteria produce acids that erode the tooth enamel, causing mineral loss.
Decalcification
This mineral loss results in permanent, chalky white spots on the teeth, known as decalcification. These spots become noticeable when the braces are removed and are a visible sign of early tooth decay that occurred around the bracket area due to poor hygiene.
Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease
The presence of plaque along the gumline leads to gingivitis, the initial stage of gum disease characterized by red, swollen, and easily bleeding gums. If left untreated, this inflammation can progress to more serious periodontal disease. This can damage the bone supporting the teeth and may require a delay in your orthodontic treatment timeline.