Tips for Easier Flossing with Braces

After getting braces, you’ll quickly notice that some parts of your oral hygiene routine require a bit of adjustment—especially flossing. Braces create new challenges when it comes to reaching between teeth and around brackets, but flossing remains just as important as ever. Here are some helpful tips to make the process smoother and more manageable.

1. Don’t Skip Flossing!

With braces, it might be tempting to skip flossing altogether—it takes longer and feels like more effort. However, flossing is critical to maintaining your dental health. You should floss at least once every 24 hours to prevent plaque buildup, gum disease, and decay between the teeth and around your braces.

2. Choose Waxed Floss

Did you know floss comes in two types: waxed and unwaxed? When you have braces, always opt for waxed floss. It glides more easily between your teeth and around brackets, reducing the risk of snagging or fraying. Unwaxed floss is more likely to get caught or tear, making the process frustrating and less effective.

3. Cut Floss into Shorter Pieces

Instead of using one long piece of floss as you might have done before braces, it’s best to cut the floss into shorter segments. This makes it easier to handle as you carefully thread it between each pair of teeth. Use a floss threader if needed to help guide the floss under the archwire.

4. Be Gentle

Once the floss is between your teeth, slide it gently below the gumline and then back up. Avoid snapping or “popping” the floss out, as this can damage the wires or brackets. Take your time to floss thoroughly and carefully between each tooth.

Flossing with braces can be a challenge at first, but with a little practice and the right technique, it will become part of your daily routine. If you have any questions about flossing or other aspects of caring for your braces, don’t hesitate to reach out to our office—we’re here to help!