When it comes to your oral health, flossing is an important step you can’t skip. This is especially true if you have Invisalign. Sticking with it can keep your treatment on track and help you avoid delays. It might seem odd that this simple habit can do so much, but it really is a non-negotiable while getting a straighter smile. Here’s why and how you can do it correctly with your trays.
Why Is Flossing Important with Invisalign?
In general, cleaning your mouth is important. It’s more so with clear aligners, as getting rid of bacteria will reduce your risk of oral health issues. That’s because when you wear your trays, any food debris and plaque that’s already there will be stuck for hours. The longer they sit, the higher the chance you have of developing decay, among other problems. These can cause delays as you’ll need to take time to fix them.
Brushing is a great way to avoid trouble, but so is flossing. This other habit can reach into places your toothbrush can’t, such as between your teeth; that way, you avoid developing a cavity there. You’ll also remove things under your gumline, which can prevent inflammation and bleeding. So, by simply having good oral hygiene, you can enjoy a smoother process toward a healthier bite.
When Do I Need to Floss with Invisalign?
With that said, you might imagine you’ll need to floss after every meal, but the good news is you don’t necessarily have to. Doing it when you’re finished eating is best, as it ensures no morsels are stuck for too long. However, you can get by doing it once a day, toward your bedtime. Find what works for you, and you might be able to do it more often; that way, you keep your Invisalign journey smooth.
What’s the Right Way to Floss?
Since you’ll have to make flossing a habit, you should make sure you do it right. Here’s a breakdown of the proper techniques you should follow:
- Remove your trays and put them in their case.
- Cut about 18 inches of floss and wrap it around your fingers loosely.
- Insert the thread between your teeth and curve it to form a “C” shape. Move it up and down and under your gumline.
- Make sure you use a new section of floss along each tooth. This helps remove plaque instead of moving it.
- Rinse and brush your teeth to remove all the bacteria in your mouth. Don’t forget to put your trays back in as well!
By keeping up with these habits, you can stay on track with your clear aligners and avoid delays to the smile you dream of.
About the Practice
At Serenity Orthodontics, our team is proud to offer Invisalign to patients in the local communities. Led by a skilled team of orthodontists, we are committed to helping you achieve a healthier, straighter smile. By staying at your side throughout, we can guide you through proper oral hygiene habits to avoid any problems. If you want more tips, schedule an appointment or call our Windermere office at (678) 879–3006.
