Here at Gorman & Bunch Orthodontics, we believe that good oral hygiene is important at all times — even more so during orthodontic treatment — and that includes brushing and flossing your teeth.

How Flossing Can Improve Your Smile

Neglecting to floss during orthodontic treatment puts you at an increased risk for dental cavities, tooth decay and gum disease. Taking special care for your teeth while wearing braces will pay off in the long run. Otherwise, you may experience the issues below.

Demineralization

Your braces create new areas where bacteria and food particles can get stuck in your mouth. These substances can cause serious decay, which is why it’s so important to floss with braces. Allowing plaque to build up on the teeth may cause scarring and decay to occur.

Delayed Completion Time

It’s important to keep your braces clean during your treatment time. Bacteria, sugar and food build-up can damage your braces, making it easier for the brackets to be moved out of place so they are no longer attached. Poor dental health during orthodontic treatment could result in tooth decay, gum disease and broken brackets, which will slow down your treatment schedule.

Aches and Pains:

Unhealthy teeth may cause a negative experience in which you feel pain, aches or sensitivity caused by cavities and decay.

Stained Teeth

Bad oral hygiene can result in stained teeth, instead of a bright white and beautiful smile once your braces are removed.

Tips on Flossing While You Get a Straighter Smile

Flossing is one of the best ways to ensure healthy oral hygiene during your orthodontic treatment. While it can be tricky, it’s not impossible. Below are some tips and tricks for making flossing with braces easier:

Use the Right Tool

Invest in an orthodontic floss threader, which is a disposable tool that allows you to pull the floss through your teeth above the wire and reach your gum line. We will give you a packet of these when we place your braces, but if you run out you can find them at any pharmacy.

Use Waxed Floss

Unwaxed floss can catch on your braces and leave behind shreds of floss. Instead, use waxed floss along with your floss threader, which will slip much more easily between each tooth.

Know Where to Floss

As you floss between your teeth like you normally would without braces, make sure you also floss behind your wires to remove food particles that can get stuck.

Go Beyond the Floss

Consider using a waterpik and/or electric toothbrush to help remove loose food particles or harmful bacteria that may be lingering in your mouth.

Flossing is an essential part of maintaining good oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment. Braces may hold food, sugars and liquids after eating and flossing will help you achieve the beautiful smile you’re seeking.

As always, give us a call if you have any questions about flossing during your orthodontic treatment. We’re here to help you achieve the best smile possible!