Clear aligners are one of the most effective and convenient ways to straighten teeth. However, they do require that you make some changes to your daily habits. For example, you will have to be extra-diligent about oral hygiene. One specific task that you will have to do is floss regularly. Why is that so vital, and how can you do so properly? Read this guide to flossing with Invisalign to find out.
Why Is Flossing with Invisalign So Important?
There are at least two big reasons why flossing with Invisalign is critically important:
- Misaligned teeth can trap harmful bacteria and food particles. If your teeth are overlapping and crowded, they can easily accumulate harmful substances between them. If you fail to floss, you could greatly increase your risk of bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease. (After you complete Invisalign treatment, fewer bacteria and food particles will get trapped, but you should continue to maintain a good flossing routine.)
- Your aligners can also trap bacteria and food. When you are not wearing Invisalign, your saliva naturally washes away some of the bacteria and food particles that would otherwise cling to your teeth. Unfortunately, clear aligners can prevent saliva from doing its job. If you do not floss, food and bacteria could stay trapped against your teeth for hours at a time.
How Often Should You Floss with Invisalign?
For people who are not currently undergoing orthodontic treatment, flossing once a day is usually adequate for maintaining a healthy, clean mouth. Throughout your Invisalign treatment period, though, you should strive to floss (and brush) after each meal. This will reduce the risk of damage to your teeth, help you enjoy fresh breath, and protect your aligners from odors and stains.
How Should You Floss with Invisalign?
The flossing techniques you should use during Invisalign treatment are no different from how you should floss at other times. Here are some tips to help you:
- Try to floss before you brush. This allows your toothpaste to make as much contact with your teeth as possible.
- Always use a clean section of floss. You should start out with about 18 inches of floss. Roll the floss between your fingers as you move from tooth to tooth so you are always using a clean section.
- Be gentle. Do not snap the floss between your teeth. Gently insert it, and then move it along the side of each tooth that surrounds a space.
Flossing during Invisalign treatment is important! If you have questions about how to do so properly, talk to your dental team. They will be happy to assist you.
Meet the Practice
Family Dental Practice of Newington is pleased to offer Invisalign and a range of other oral health services to our community. If you would like to learn more about oral hygiene or what to expect during orthodontic treatment, we are ready to speak with you. Contact our office at 860-856-6201.