How To Floss With Braces

It is estimated that only about 30% of people floss their teeth. If you are currently under orthodontic care, you may find that flossing is challenging. For those who have orthodontics, flossing should be a very important part of your dental care. Learning to floss this way does take some practice, though. If you have braces in Williamsburg, VA, the team at Williamsburg Family Dentistry will assist you. Dr. Ricky Rubin, Dr. Brett Dunnill, and Dr. Omar Hasham can help you learn how to properly care for your teeth. 

Is Flossing Really That Important?

Flossing is an important way you can prevent tooth decay. Brushing your teeth is certainly important, but flossing is what removes food particles and bacteria from below the gum line and from in between the teeth. Between the teeth is one of the first places tooth decay often starts. 

Flossing is also the best way to prevent Gingivitis as well. Gingivitis is inflammation and infection on the surface and just below the gumline. Gingivitis can quickly worsen into periodontitis which is a severe form of gum infection. 

Flossing also helps to cut down on bad breath by removing the bacteria which causes bad breath. 

How To Floss Under Brackets

If you currently have braces in Williamsburg, VA, you have probably noticed how difficult it is to floss under the brackets on your teeth. Flossing under brackets will require certain flossing tools and you will need to take the time to learn how to do this properly. You can either use a floss threader or specially designed floss with a stiff end to one side. 

You will use the special floss or the floss threader to go underneath each bracket. Once you are under the bracket, you will floss your teeth as usual. The challenge to flossing with brackets is that you must go under each bracket for each tooth. This is a time-consuming activity, but it is vital to the long-term health of your mouth. 

If you have braces in Williamsburg, VA, and are in need of dental care, please contact Dr. Rubin, Dr. Dunnill, or Dr. Hasham at Williamsburg Family Dentistry by calling 757-345-5500. 

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