Wearing braces creates numerous surfaces where food particles and plaque easily become trapped, making optimal oral hygiene a unique challenge. Traditional string flossing, which requires threading a thin strand under the archwire, is often difficult and time-consuming. The water flosser is a specialized home dental device that uses a focused, pulsating stream of water to clean these hard-to-reach areas effectively. This tool simplifies interdental cleaning, helping to disrupt plaque and reduce the risk of gum inflammation during orthodontic treatment.
Choosing the Right Equipment and Preparation
Before starting, selecting the appropriate tip is important to maximize effectiveness around braces. Many manufacturers offer specialized orthodontic tips, which feature a tapered brush designed to navigate and scrub the surfaces of the brackets and wires. Other options, like the Plaque Seeker tip, use three thin tufts of bristles to target and remove plaque from the areas immediately surrounding the appliances.
Once the tip is attached, fill the reservoir with lukewarm water, as this temperature is more comfortable and less likely to cause sensitivity. A non-abrasive, sugar-free mouthwash may be added for freshness, but the device requires immediate and thorough rinsing afterward. Initial use should always begin on the lowest pressure setting to allow your gums to acclimate to the water stream. Gradually increase the pressure over subsequent sessions to find the optimal balance between comfort and effective cleaning.
Step-by-Step Water Flossing Technique
Proper technique begins by leaning over the sink and placing the flosser tip into your mouth before turning the unit on. Keeping your lips slightly closed allows the water to drain directly into the basin without splashing. Position the tip to aim the water jet at a 90-degree angle to the tooth surface, focusing first on the gumline.
The stream must target the area where the tooth meets the gum, as well as the space above and below the archwire. Start the process with your back teeth and systematically work your way around the mouth to ensure no area is missed. This methodical approach ensures comprehensive cleaning.
To clean around each bracket, move the tip slowly along the wire, pausing briefly at each bracket and between the teeth. This pause allows the pulsating water to flush out trapped food debris and disrupt adhering plaque. If using an orthodontic tip, the tapered brush should gently contact the bracket to help physically scrub away the biofilm as the water stream cleans the surrounding areas.
A thorough session should last between 60 and 90 seconds, covering the outer and inner surfaces of the teeth in both the upper and lower arches. It is beneficial to divide the mouth into quadrants and ensure each section receives sufficient attention before moving to the next. The systematic movement ensures you trace the entire length of the archwire, cleaning the wire itself and the tooth surface immediately beneath it.
The consistent, targeted action of the water stream is effective for navigating the complex topography of braces. If you notice bleeding, it indicates that the gums are inflamed due to plaque buildup, and continued gentle flossing usually leads to improvement. If the bleeding is excessive or does not resolve after several days of consistent cleaning, consult with your dentist.
Essential Device Care and Operational Questions
After each use, empty the water reservoir completely and leave the tank door open to allow the interior to air-dry. This prevents stagnant water, which can encourage the growth of mold and mildew inside the unit. Wiping down the exterior of the device with a soft cloth also helps maintain cleanliness.
For deeper maintenance, a cleaning cycle should be performed approximately once a month to prevent mineral deposits from hard water from accumulating in the internal components. This is done by running a mixture of one part white vinegar to two parts warm water through the unit until the reservoir is empty. Following the vinegar mixture, a full reservoir of clean, warm water should be run through the system to rinse out any residual solution.
It is recommended to use the device at least once daily, preferably after a meal or after brushing to flush out remaining particles. The tips should be replaced every three to six months, as wear and tear reduces their effectiveness. Consistent daily use of the water flosser, paired with regular brushing, is the most effective approach for maintaining healthy teeth and gums throughout orthodontic treatment.