A water flosser, or oral irrigator, delivers a targeted stream of pressurized water to clean the mouth. This stream effectively removes food debris and plaque from hard-to-reach areas that a toothbrush or traditional string floss might miss. For individuals undergoing orthodontic treatment, water flossing is highly recommended by orthodontists for maintaining proper oral hygiene. The presence of brackets and wires makes cleaning significantly more challenging.
Why Water Flossing is Ideal for Braces
Orthodontic appliances like braces create numerous small, tight spaces where food particles and bacteria can easily become trapped. These areas include the spaces between the archwire and the tooth surface, around the base of each bracket, and beneath the bands at the back of the mouth. Traditional string flossing is often cumbersome, requiring a floss threader to maneuver the floss under the archwire for every single tooth.
The pressurized water stream from a water flosser offers a non-contact method to clean these intricate areas. The water jet dislodges sticky plaque and debris from around the brackets and wires that string floss cannot access effectively or easily. The pulsating action of the water also provides a gentle massage to the gum tissue, which can improve circulation and reduce the inflammation often associated with wearing braces.
Consistent and thorough cleaning is important to prevent decalcification, which appears as white spots on the tooth surface when braces are removed. This is an early sign of tooth decay caused by acid-producing plaque bacteria remaining on the enamel around the brackets. Water flossing helps mitigate this risk by thoroughly flushing away the plaque biofilm. Clinical studies have shown that water flossing can be significantly more effective at reducing plaque and gingivitis than brushing and string flossing combined for patients with braces.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Water Flosser with Braces
Proper technique ensures the most effective cleaning around your orthodontic hardware. Begin by filling the reservoir with lukewarm water to minimize sensitivity, and insert the flosser tip securely into the handle. If your device has an orthodontic tip, which often features a tapered brush, it is highly recommended for use with braces.
Before turning the unit on, lean over the sink and place the tip inside your mouth, with your lips slightly closed to prevent splashing while allowing the water to drain. Start with the lowest pressure setting, especially if you are new to water flossing or have sensitive gums, and gradually increase the intensity to a comfortable yet effective level.
Guide the water flosser tip systematically, starting with the back teeth on one arch and working your way forward. Aim the water stream at the gumline, positioning the tip at about a 90-degree angle to the tooth surface. Trace the water stream along the archwire and around the base of each individual bracket, pausing briefly for about two seconds per tooth. This methodical approach ensures that you flush out debris and plaque from all sides of the bracket and the area between the teeth.
Integrating Water Flossing into Routine Oral Care
A water flosser is a powerful supplement to your regular brushing routine, not a complete replacement. It excels at flushing out loose food particles and debris trapped by braces, making subsequent brushing more effective. Many orthodontists advise using the water flosser at least once daily, typically after the last meal, to clean the most difficult areas. While water flossing significantly reduces the need for cumbersome flossing with threaders, some dental professionals still recommend using traditional floss to physically scrub the interdental surfaces where teeth touch.
You may enhance the cleaning effect by adding a small amount of non-alcohol mouthwash to the water reservoir. Be sure to rinse the unit thoroughly with plain water afterward to prevent mineral buildup.