Our Exeter, PA, orthodontist recommends brushing and flossing at least twice each day as part of a standard oral health routine. Since your mouth is constantly growing bacteria, it’s essential to remove it regularly, especially when you have braces. With braces, or various other dental applications, it can be tempting to skimp on flossing simply because all the hardware makes flossing a challenge. Luckily, advancements in modern orthodontia means there are products available that make the flossing process much easier.
A floss threader is an effective tool recommended by our Exeter orthodontist that allows you to stay on top of your oral health while wearing braces. A hard, but flexible plastic device, a floss threader resembles a needle and works by getting floss to areas of your teeth you wouldn’t normally be able to reach. If you have bridgework, dentures, or braces, for example, flossing can be difficult, but a floss threader gives you the opportunity to floss on a regular basis, thus maintaining your healthy mouth.
Simply thread around 18 inches of your regular floss into the eye of the floss threader. Pass one end of the floss through the loop of the threader, and pull about half of it through. Once the floss is inserted properly, our Exeter, PA, orthodontist says each end can be easily moved around to thoroughly clean behind the archwires, bridgework, or the bar of your retainer. Special floss with rigid sections is available, and can be inserted under the bridge or orthodontic wire to make flossing even easier.
Along with regular tooth brushing, floss threaders can help maintain your oral health, and prolong the life of your dental work. For best results use the floss threader at least once a day, and be sure to thoroughly clean it after each use, disposing of the floss each time. You can purchase a floss threader at most any major retailer or drugstore, so don’t let your happy, healthy smile lose its luster. It’s never been easier to stay on top of your oral health, even with braces. Contact our Exeter orthodontist for more information or to schedule a consultation.
The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about this and other orthodontic-related topics, feel free to contact Spark Orthodontics, with a convenient orthodontic office near Exeter, PA, by clicking here or by calling 610.223.7777.
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