For people with dental appliances, such as braces, retainers, bridges and dentures flossing can be rather difficult. Such dental appliances make flossing much more challenging and much more time consuming. Unfortunately it is even more essential that these people take the time to floss thoroughly and effectively as food debris is much more likely to gather around dental fixtures in the mouth. It is important to remember that taking the time and having the patience will most certainly pay off in the end. And after going through the trauma of having such dental work, assumingly to correct problems with your teeth, it would be a shame to let the good work go to waste by not being bothered to keep your teeth and gums healthy by flossing.
Dentists recommend using waxed dental floss if you have dental fixtures. The waxed floss is less likely to get caught on the fittings and break and also glides between teeth and around fittings more easily.
Making the task easier
To help make flossing easier when you have dental fixtures in your mouth you can use a floss threader “ the needle like device which allows you to thread floss between fittings and the gum line with ease, allowing for flossing using the conventional method. Dentists also recommend using superfloss (discussed in ‘Types of dental floss’). Superfloss has the stiffer edge on one side which allows for easy insertion between the fittings and eliminating the need for a floss threader. It really is personal preference as to which one you find most useful when flossing.
Dental bridge
A floss threader is the best method to use for dental bridges. Dental bridges are cemented into the mouth and therefore cannot be removed and cleaned as dentures can be. For this reason it is important that the entire area around the bridge is keep 100% clean and this is only achievable through thorough flossing. The floss threader will allow you to insert the floss right under the dental bridge allowing you to clean the entire area. It can be tricky but it can be done and your dentist will be able to demonstrate and advise you on this if you feel apprehensive about doing it.
When flossing with dental appliances you should follow the conventional method of flossing; making a ‘C’ shape and rubbing the floss against the tooth in an up and down motion, making sure to thoroughly clean the whole surface of the tooth and right under the gum line. However, it is important to take extra care not to apply pressure to the delicate fixtures and fittings in your mouth; these can be extremely fragile and will easily break when excess force is applied.
If you have such fixtures and fittings then it may be a good idea to discuss your flossing technique with your dentist as it can be made extremely tricky by dental appliances. Your dentist will be happy to discuss all of your concerns with you as well as demonstrate a good approach to flossing if you feel you need such advice.