Wearing orthodontic braces complicates flossing, a necessary defense against plaque buildup and gum inflammation. The fixed archwire creates a barrier, preventing traditional floss from easily reaching the interdental space and the gumline. While a floss threader is a common solution, many prefer alternatives that streamline the process or offer a more comprehensive cleaning method without the extra step of threading. These methods offer effective ways to maintain optimal oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment without relying on a separate threader tool.
Specialized Floss Products Designed for Braces
Specialized dental floss products are manufactured with integrated components that eliminate the need for a separate threader. Products often referred to as “Superfloss” are pre-cut strands designed specifically for navigating around orthodontic hardware and dental bridges. Each strand is composed of three distinct sections engineered for a complete cleaning cycle.
The first section is a stiffened end, which functions as a built-in threader that can be pushed directly under the archwire. This rigid tip guides the floss through the small gap between the wire and the tooth surface without bending. Once the stiff end is passed through, a thicker, spongy section follows, which is effective for sweeping away accumulated plaque and food debris from the irregular surfaces of the brackets and the wire.
The final portion is a segment of regular nylon floss, used to clean the proximal surface of the tooth. To use this effectively, pull the strand until the regular floss section is positioned between the teeth. Gently move the floss up and down in a C-shape motion against the sides of the tooth, extending slightly beneath the gumline to disrupt plaque accumulation. Using a fresh strand for each interdental space ensures the cleaning action remains effective throughout the mouth.
Utilizing Water Flossers for Deep Cleaning
Water flossers, also known as oral irrigators, offer an efficient method for cleaning around braces. These devices use a pressurized, pulsating stream of water to dislodge and flush out food particles and bacterial plaque from hard-to-reach areas. The water jet’s mechanical action is effective at cleaning areas immediately under the archwire and around the bracket bases.
To use a water flosser, fill the reservoir with lukewarm water and select an orthodontic tip, if available. Begin on the lowest pressure setting to allow your gums to adjust, gradually increasing the pressure as comfort permits.
Lean over the sink and place the tip into your mouth before turning the unit on to minimize splashing. Aim the water stream at a 90-degree angle to the teeth, carefully tracing the gumline. Pause the stream briefly at each interdental space and around the margins of the brackets to flush out trapped debris. While a water flosser excels at removing loose debris, it should be used in conjunction with regular brushing, as it may not fully remove adherent plaque biofilm.
Targeted Cleaning with Interdental Tools
Specialized interdental tools provide a necessary supplement for localized cleaning and scrubbing of bracket surfaces. Interdental brushes, often called Proxabrushes, are small, cylindrical brushes designed to clean spaces a toothbrush cannot reach. Selecting the correct size is important; the brush should fit snugly but never be forced between the teeth or around the hardware.
These brushes are useful for cleaning the tooth surface between the bracket and the archwire. Gently insert the brush under the wire and use a soft, back-and-forth motion to scrub the tooth surface and the bracket itself. This targeted scrubbing action removes plaque that adheres directly to the components of the braces.
Orthodontic picks, which are smaller and more flexible than interdental brushes, can be utilized for cleaning tight spots. These tools allow for precise cleaning around the base of each bracket, where plaque tends to accumulate heavily. While these tools provide excellent localized cleaning, they do not substitute for cleaning the full surface area between the teeth.