Very few teenagers are excited to get braces. However, as any adult who had braces as a teenager understands, the temporary discomfort that comes from having braces is well worth it if it means that as an adult you have perfectly straight teeth and an attractive smile. Taking steps when you are young to improve your smile is an investment in your future.
That being said, wearing braces and maintaining good dental health while wearing them can be difficult. For example, flossing with braces is frustrating. It can almost feel like you are trying to thread a needle. However, there are certain steps that you can take to make flossing easier while wearing braces.
For example, purchasing an orthodontic floss threader will help. These devices are very inexpensive. It is a tool that is disposable, and you can purchase it anywhere you can buy a toothbrush. The nice thing about this device is that it allows you to pull the floss through your teeth above the wire. This lets you get to the gum line and remove any food that is stuck in your teeth.
Parents will need to take special care with their younger children when it comes to flossing with braces. Younger children who have braces may not have the determination or the dexterity needed to floss around braces effectively. As you help your child floss their teeth, you may have them sit or kneel in a comfortable position. If your child has a hard time sitting still for an extended period of time, put their favorite cartoon on the television as you help them floss their teeth.
Choosing the right dental floss will go a long way in helping you maintain good dental health while wearing braces. Dental floss comes in two varieties. There is the waxed floss and the non-waxed floss. If you use non-waxed floss, you’re going to have the frustration that comes from shreds of dental floss getting stuck in your braces. However, if you use waxed floss and you also purchase the floss threading device mentioned earlier, you’re going to be able to easily slip the dental floss between your teeth. It’s not going to catch. And as you gently slide the floss up and down the gum line, you’re going to remove debris that has been caught in your teeth, thereby improving your dental health.
Wearing braces is frustrating. That’s not up for debate. When you are wearing braces, you’re doing it because you are investing in your future. However, if you are not diligent while flossing with braces, you may have less than stellar results in the future when the braces come off. Flossing regularly is important when you are wearing braces because it will prevent gingivitis and plaque accumulation.
During your appointment for braces at Petty & Bielik Orthodontics, you can learn all the facts about flossing with braces. We are located in Oak Lawn. Contact us today to schedule your free orthodontic consultation appointment to learn more.