How to Floss With Braces

Receiving braces are a common yet very important part of orthodontic treatment. Not only do the braces straighten teeth to make them more visibly more appealing, but also help to correct any underlying dental problem. Unfortunately, unless a patient is able to maintain a proper level of oral health after receiving the braces, worse dental problems can form.

Before understanding how to properly care for the teeth, patients must have a general understanding of how the mouth works. Many children and teens have heard of plaque, but what many don't realize is that this sticky substance forms on the teeth right after eating any form of food. Because plaque is made mostly of food particles, bacteria forms quickly. If left alone, this can cause teeth decay, leading to cavities, gingivitis, and periodontitis.

This can all be avoided by practicing proper plaque control. Because plaque forms directly after eating, it's important for patients, especially those with braces, to brush their teeth after each meal. This removes the majority of plaque.

Unfortunately, not all plaque will be removed simply by brushing. There will always be some that is left behind on the teeth and that's where mouth wash comes in. Most mouth washes contain a high level of alcohol, known for killing germs. This is a highly effective way to remove any left behind bacterias.

Both brushing and using mouth washes are extremely important for those who have braces, because, unlike with regular teeth, food particles and bacteria can become trapped even easier within the metal. Brushing and rinsing aren't enough, however. While mouth wash does kill germs, it doesn't remove the plaque that brushing alone can't. For that, flossing is needed.

Learning how to how to floss with braces can be difficult, but is extremely important. Unlike learning how to floss regularly, patients must consider the metal on their teeth. Those who wear braces will need to floss between both the metal strips and their teeth at least once a day.

The easiest way to do this is to use a floss threader with waxed floss. Other floss can be used, however waxed floss tends to be easier to work with and not break as easily.

Patients can begin by threading the floss into the threader and positioning it over the braces. Holding the floss firmly, the patient should begin to floss around the arch of the wires. Any food debris that has gotten stuck within the metal will now be removed.

Once the braces have been properly cleaned, flossing should also be done under the gum-lines of the teeth. This should be done carefully, and in many cases patients will bleed the first few times after flossing. This is fairly normal and will decrease overtime. Patients should continue to floss under the gum-line well after the braces have been removed to help prevent gum disease.