The presence of orthodontic hardware significantly increases the difficulty of maintaining a clean mouth, but flossing remains necessary for dental health. Braces create numerous small, tight spaces where food debris and bacterial plaque accumulate easily, areas a toothbrush cannot reach effectively. Neglecting to remove this interdental plaque elevates the risk of gingivitis, tooth decay, and the development of permanent white spots on the enamel once the braces are removed. Using the correct specialized tools and technique makes daily flossing manageable and protects the investment in a straight smile.
Understanding Orthodontic Flossing Tools
Standard “Y” or “F” shaped floss picks are ineffective for use with braces because the archwire blocks access to the space between the teeth. Individuals with braces rely on tools specifically designed to overcome this mechanical obstruction. The most widely used and cost-effective solution is the orthodontic floss threader, a small, flexible piece of plastic that resembles a sewing needle. This tool acts as a guide, allowing a strand of regular dental floss to be pulled underneath the archwire. Alternatively, specialized orthodontic flossers, like pre-threaded picks or Superfloss, integrate a stiff, needle-like end directly onto the floss strand or pick handle. These specialized designs bypass the need to manually thread the floss, simplifying the process while still achieving the required access to the interdental space.
Step-by-Step Guide to Floss Placement
The first step in effective flossing with braces is successfully positioning the floss underneath the main archwire. Begin by taking a generous length of dental floss, roughly 18 inches, and threading one end through the eye of the floss threader. Waxed floss is often recommended as it is less likely to shred or catch on the metal components of the braces.
With the floss securely looped, gently guide the stiff end of the threader over the top of the archwire and down into the space between two specific teeth. The threader should pass smoothly through the opening, carrying the dental floss with it. Pull the threader completely through the other side until only the strand of floss remains tautly positioned in the interdental space, resting below the archwire.
Once the threader is removed, you will have a segment of floss ready for cleaning between the two teeth. Repeat this entire threading process for every space between the teeth on the upper and lower arches, as each contact point requires individual placement of the floss. This methodical approach ensures no segment is missed.
Achieving Complete Plaque Removal
With the floss correctly positioned between the teeth, the focus shifts to the mechanical action necessary for thorough plaque removal. Grip both ends of the floss and gently slide it toward the gumline, being careful not to snap it down, which can irritate the gum tissue. The most effective method is the “C-shape” technique, where the floss is curved around one side of the tooth, conforming to its rounded surface.
Gently slide the floss into the sulcus, the small pocket of space just beneath the gumline, and move it up and down along the side of the tooth multiple times. This action disrupts and removes the bacterial biofilm. After cleaning the first tooth, slide the floss back up and curve it in a “C-shape” around the adjacent tooth, repeating the vertical scrubbing motion.
Ensure that the areas immediately next to the brackets and along the gumline are thoroughly cleaned, as these are the primary zones for plaque accumulation when wearing braces. Once cleaning is complete, carefully remove the floss without disturbing the archwire. This is achieved by releasing one end of the floss and gently pulling the entire strand through, away from the archwire.