Your dentist has probably talked to you for many years about the importance of regular flossing, but you may be confused about how to achieve good flossing with braces. There are lots of flossing products and techniques that can help keep your gums healthy while you have braces.

Here are our best tips for flossing with braces:

Tip #1: Use a threader.

Contrary to popular belief, it is possible to floss your teeth when you have braces. A floss threader makes the process incredibly easy. A floss threader is a flexible plastic loop that works by helping you push dental floss between your teeth. Thoroughly floss through each space between your teeth; this will require re-threading the floss through each gap.

Tip #2: Use this special brush.

An interproximal brush is a must for anyone who has braces. These gadgets are ideal for removing food particles from behind arch wires. Simply run the small bundle of bristles between your teeth and your arch wires to help keep your teeth clean between your regular brushing and flossing times. Travel-size interproximal brushes are handy for using after lunch if you are away from home.

Tip #3: Just add water.

A water flosser does not take the place of dental floss, but it can help keep your gums healthy and clean between regular flossing times. Water flossers force small streams of water between teeth to clear away debris.

Tip #4: Give it a swish.

Another great tip for keeping your mouth clean while you’re wearing braces is to start and finish your dental hygiene routine with a good quality mouthwash. Mouthwash isn’t just for minty fresh breath – it also helps loosen and flush away food particles from every nook and cranny in your mouth.

Practicing good oral hygiene is always important, but it’s even more important when you are wearing braces. The brackets and wires in your mouth create more places for tartar and plaque to build up. Braces are also frequently used as an excuse to avoid flossing, but this is a huge mistake.

If you still have questions, you can learn more about flossing with braces by visiting our Oral Hygiene for Patients page.