At Huls Orthodontics, Dr. Mark B. Huls helps patients get the dental treatments they need and feel comfortable with their choices. He gives you all the information you need when choosing braces or any other oral appliances whether you visit our Champaign or Monticello offices. When you get braces from us, learn how you can floss with them and keep your teeth in good shape.
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Dental Floss
Using dental floss is one of the easiest ways to take care of your teeth and protect your braces. Opt for waxed floss because it gets around the braces without causing any damage or sticking between your teeth. Use a small piece of floss that you hold tightly with both hands. Slowly work your way between two of your back teeth and then work your way around your mouth. Do not use too much pressure or pull the floss out of your mouth as this might damage the brackets.
Water Flosser
A water flosser like a Waterpik is another great option. It uses a steady and high stream of water to keep deep between your teeth, removing plaque, food bits, and much more. Water flossers are safe to use with most types of braces. Not only will it work with water, but it also works with mouthwash. Adding mouthwash to the tank helps you kill bacteria in your mouth. Just turn on the flosser and slowly move it around your mouth, focusing on the spaces between your teeth.
Other Options
You can also use a floss threader, which is a small plastic device designed to hold the floss. A floss threader works on the metal braces Monticello IL patients have and other types. You'll even find packages that include the floss already inside the threader, giving you a convenient way to clean your teeth when you're away from your bathroom.
In our family orthodontist Monticello office, we recommend dental tape, too. Dental tape is a good option for patients with sensitive teeth or teeth that are susceptible to pain. It's wider and thinner than standard floss and can prevent problems like bleeding gums. Like a floss threader, dental tape is easy to use on the go. Keep a container handy to take care of your teeth between brushes.
Floss Safely with Braces
For clear aligners or metal braces in Monticello, patients benefit from choosing the right way to floss. Floss threaders, dental tape, water flossers, and ordinary dental floss are all safe to use as long as you move slowly and don't apply too much pressure. Learn more about how you can keep your braces safe between appointments when you call Dr. Huls today to schedule a visit to our family orthodontist in Monticello, IL.