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Can I Use Floss Picks With Braces?

can i use floss picks with braces

Dreaming of a dazzling smile even with braces? Wondering if floss picks are your new best friend? Look no further! In this guide, we unveil the magic of floss picks and how they revolutionize oral care for braces wearers. Get ready to discover the key to maintaining a healthy and vibrant smile effortlessly, with the help of dentists near you.

Can I use floss picks with braces?

Yes, you can use floss picks with braces. Flossing is crucial for maintaining oral health, especially when you have braces. Floss picks designed specifically for braces make the process easier and more effective.

Why Flossing is Extra Important with Braces

Braces create additional spaces where food particles can get trapped, making it easier for bacteria to thrive. 

Without proper flossing, you risk developing cavities and gum disease. The best way to floss with braces is to use special braces floss or floss picks, gently threading them under the wires to clean between your teeth and around your braces.

Increased Food Traps and Bacteria Growth

Braces have numerous nooks and crannies that can easily trap food. This trapped food becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing the chances of plaque buildup and tooth decay.

Risk of Cavities and Gum Disease Without Proper Flossing

Without effective flossing, the buildup of plaque and bacteria can lead to cavities and gum disease. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to avoid these issues while wearing braces.

Difficulties of Traditional Flossing with Braces

Traditional flossing can be challenging with braces. The wires make it difficult to thread floss between your teeth, and regular floss can shred or get caught on the braces.

Threading Under Wires

Threading floss under the wires of your braces can be time-consuming and frustrating. This often discourages people from flossing regularly.

Regular Floss Can Shred or Get Caught

Standard floss can easily shred or become tangled in your braces, making the process even more challenging and less effective. Don’t forget to use braces floss to clean between your teeth and around your braces for optimal oral hygiene.

Floss Picks: A Suitable Alternative

Floss picks are a convenient solution for those with braces. They are designed with a C-shaped end that fits under the wires, making flossing much easier. Floss picks are a convenient choice for orthodontics in Red Deer, making flossing with braces easier and more effective.

Designed for Braces with C-Shaped End to Fit Under Wires

Floss picks designed for braces have a unique C-shaped end that allows you to easily navigate around the wires and brackets.

Easier to Use and Navigate Around Brace

Using floss picks is simpler than traditional flossing methods. They allow you to quickly and efficiently clean between your teeth and around your braces.

How to Use Floss Picks with Braces

  1. Insert the Floss Pick: Gently insert the C-shaped end of the floss pick under the wire.
  2. Slide Between Teeth: Move the floss pick up and down between each tooth.
  3. Repeat: Continue the process for all your teeth, ensuring you floss both sides of each tooth.

Why does flossing hurt sometimes? 

Flossing may hurt due to gum inflammation, improper technique, or dental issues. It’s vital to floss gently, use the right technique, and address any underlying dental concerns for comfortable flossing.

Additional Considerations

While floss picks are handy, they might not reach every nook and cranny. To ensure a comprehensive clean, it’s wise to complement them with other oral hygiene tools. This way, you can cover all bases for optimal dental health.

Potential Limitations of Floss Picks

Floss picks, while convenient, may struggle to reach certain tight spots in your mouth. This limitation could leave some areas less clean than others. 

To guarantee thorough cleaning, pairing floss picks with other oral hygiene tools is a smart move.

Alternative Flossing Tools

Consider using interdental brushes or a water flosser in addition to floss picks. These tools can help clean hard-to-reach areas and provide a more thorough cleaning.

Alpen Dental’s Tip for Brighter Braces Smiles

At Alpen Dental, we know the importance of maintaining oral hygiene, especially with braces. Floss picks are a fantastic choice—they streamline flossing, guarding against cavities and gum disease. For an even more thorough clean, pair them with interdental brushes and water flossers.

We provide comprehensive orthodontic care to ensure your smile stays healthy and bright throughout your braces journey. Book your appointment with our experienced orthodontist in Red Deer today, and let us guide you towards a radiant smile.