Flossing with Braces

Flossing with dental braces requires a specialized technique and a bit of patience. Your kid might have difficulty positioning the thread to remove plaque from around the brackets and between the teeth, leading to an inadequate cleaning job. 

Since braces create additional spaces for food particles to hide, just brushing won’t do a thorough job.

Following are the steps on how to floss with braces:

Step #1

Roll Out the Right Length of Floss

The floss’s length should be at least 18 inches. Tell your kid to wrap it around their middle fingers, leaving 2 inches in the middle. You can also use a floss threader if you feel that your kid has a stronghold and might snap the floss.

Step #2

Thread the Floss Under the Wire

Gently guide the floss threader under the wire of your braces, and pull it through to have equal length on both sides. Hold one end of the floss in each hand and position it between two teeth.

Step #3

Floss Between the Teeth

Move the floss up and down between the two teeth, forming a C shape. Be gentle to avoid causing injury.

Step #4

Rinse Your Mouth

After flossing, rinse your mouth with water and an antiseptic mouthwash to remove any remaining particles.

Consider buying a water flosser if your kid makes faces while flossing with a thread. This device uses a water stream to remove debris and plaque. It can be a helpful addition to their oral hygiene routine.

By following the steps outlined above, you can prevent gum disease and cavities in your kid, ensuring a healthy and beautiful smile. Once the braces come off, your kid can use a clear aligner to keep the teeth in shape.

Orthodontics of the Black Hills provides family orthodontic care. Apart from offering dental braces in Rapid City, their services include treatment for sleep apnea and TMJ. For more information, call (605) 663-4865.