Can’t Floss With Braces? There Is An Easy Way Out!

If you thought getting braces was the hard part of this orthodontic treatment, you would not like what’s coming next. Ask a veteran about the toughest thing about braces, and they will give you one answer: flossing. It indeed is difficult, but there are many ways you can make flossing easier with braces; read along to find out.

Why Flossing Matters, Especially with Braces On?

According to the American Dental Association, flossing is not a choice; it is the tool that saves the wearer’s teeth against plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease. Now, you have more nooks and corners than before due to brackets and wires; therefore, there is more ground for plaque and food particles to cause havoc in your mouth. Flossing helps in reaching those tight corners and cracks that a regular brush cannot.

Flossing With Braces – What Options Do You Have?

Here are 4 types you can choose from.

1. Traditional Flosser
   They are thin strands that glide between your teeth to pluck out any food debris or plaque accumulated between them. You can choose either waxed or non-waxed strings. However, according to a survey, people have found waxed variety to be smoother and slide easily through those tight spaces.
   Pros and Cons
   Although traditional flossing is effective, it does have its share of baggage. It is the best go-to solution for getting rid of food bits from the hard-to-reach corner of your mouth.
2. Floss Threader
   You may think of it as a tiny tool, but it plays a very big role in your oral health management with braces. It does take a bit of practice; however, it becomes smooth sailing once you get the hang of it.
   Pros and Cons
   The floss threader might take a bit more time than you would like to spend on it, but it is a budget-friendly option accessible at your local drugstore or online.
3. Water Flosser
   It is like a tiny jet of water blasting off plaque and food debris from your teeth. The best part? There are no strings attached. It is like a mini power hose for your mouth. Moreover, there is no need to worry about your gums; its pressure does not harm the tissues in any way.
   Pros and Cons
   The water pressure does most of the heavy job for you. Gum bleeding is not an issue here. But they might hit your wallet a bit harder than other flossing options. They are safe and effective but a bit costly.
4. Dental Tape
   There’s another one – dental tape. It is much like traditional floss but with a twist. It is flat, and slides between teeth and braces, sweeping away plaque.

Pros and Cons

Dental tape is your best bet when you want more coverage. It can encapsulate larger surface areas between your teeth and braces, leaving no debris behind. However, you have to be careful while using them since it may lead to bleeding.

Closing Note

Call us to learn more about the dental experts at Rio Dental. Dial (210) 785-8526 to schedule an appointment. Or, if you’d like to visit our office, you can find us at 2811 Hillcrest Dr, San Antonio, TX 78201, near Villasol Insurance Solutions LLC.