As you get used to Invisalign, you’ll need to build a good routine to make sure your smile stays clean throughout your treatment. While you might be consistent with brushing, flossing is just as important. This habit can lower your risk of dental problems and ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy. Here’s why and a guide on how to properly do this step of your oral hygiene.
Why Do I Need to Floss?
When you brush your teeth, you scrub plaque off the surfaces of your teeth. You clean about 60% of your grin, but there are spaces the bristles can’t reach. However, you can get these spots with dental floss. By making this a habit, you can further lower your risk of any issues that get in the way of your Invisalign treatment.
Flossing is important with clear aligners because you wear them for 22 hours every day. If you aren’t consistent with this step, then bacteria and debris will linger on your smile for a long while. You may develop decay, an infection, or another issue that can delay your results. So, by sticking with it, you can keep your treatment a bit smoother.
When Should I Floss During My Invisalign Treatment?
With that said, you might be wondering when you should floss during Invisalign. After all, you’ll be having your trays for the majority of the day. Simply put, try squeezing it in after you eat. This will remove plaque and food debris right away so they can’t cause problems. That said, doing it at least once before bedtime is passable.
What’s the Proper Way to Floss?
If you aren’t used to flossing, it might be a bit daunting to figure out how to do it right. Here is what you should do, step-by-step:
- Remove your trays and place them in their case.
- Cut about an 18-inch-long floss thread and loosely wrap it around your fingers.
- Put it between your teeth and curve it against the tooth to form a “C” shape. Move it up, down, and under your gumline.
- Do this for each of your teeth, using a new section of floss for each side.
- Rinse, brush, and put your aligners back in.
It may take some time to get used to flossing, but you will get quicker and more effective at it. Stick to it, and it’ll become second nature. That way, you can make sure your smile-straightening journey is problem-free.
About the Author
Dr. Luke Lumpkin earned his dental degree from The University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry. He is dedicated to helping the Bartlesville community get the healthy bites they deserve with Invisalign. Dr. Lumpkin will stay at your side throughout your treatment and help you avoid delays. If you need help adjusting to life with clear aligners, schedule an appointment or call his office at (918) 336-6777.