Flossing can be hard when you have braces; in fact, many people who wear orthodontic braces use that as an excuse not to floss.
Naturally, that can only lead to problems in the future as flossing is an important part of your teeth’s health.
But that also shouldn’t stop you from getting braces — especially when you really have to. It’s just a matter of knowing the proper process of flossing when you have it.
When you are about to get Reston VA braces, make sure you know or ask for tips on how to floss with braces. Here are some tips:
Brush teeth thoroughly first
Before you floss, make sure you have already brushed and cleaned your teeth first. Brushing should clean areas of the teeth that flossing can’t — and that includes areas between the brace wires, brackets, and even between the teeth. Flossing should be done to remove the food and plaque in the hard-to-reach areas of the teeth that brushing cannot clean. When brushing, make sure to use different motions — circular, side-to-side — to remove the plaque on your teeth. Make sure to focus on the braces, too!
Step-by-step
There are, of course, several ways to floss.
To start, get a piece of dental floss that’s about 18cm to 20cm long — long enough to be wrapped around your index finger when you are doing the flossing.
Thread the floss’ end between the braces’ wire and your teeth, which should be aligned to the teeth’s gap. If you are having a difficult time controlling the floss, wrap its end around your index finger. Make sure you have good control of the dental floss as you clean your teeth to avoid minor accidents and hurting your gums.
Apply pressure to shake or wiggle the floss to remove the food particles stuck in between your teeth and the plaque that has built up on your gums. You can also use an up-and-down motion. Be gentle and make sure, even though it can be difficult, to go a bit beneath your gum tissues. Gum tissues are slightly moveable so don’t be scared that it might damage your gums or teeth. Of course, make sure that you don’t apply too much pressure.
When done with one side of the teeth, gently slide the floss to clean the area around the adjacent tooth. Just repeat the process. Then, slide the floss out of the betweens of your teeth gently, without too much pressure or force.
There may be a bit of bleeding after flossing — this is expected, especially if your gums and teeth have build-up plaque. But there shouldn’t be a lot; make sure to go to your dentist when there is always profuse bleeding after every flossing.
It is recommended to floss your teeth at least once a day and brush your teeth at least twice a day. If your teeth and gums are sensitive, ask your dentist about the proper Reston VA braces and toothbrushes as to avoid injuring your gums and teeth,
Remember that proper teeth care is important and more effective — and more affordable — than treating them when they are already damaged or infected.
When it comes to Reston VA braces, patients trust Stang Family Orthodontics. Contact us today and we’ll provide top-quality care to help you smile on!