Clear aligners offer a convenient and discreet way to straighten your teeth without traditional metal braces, but keeping your teeth clean during treatment requires a little extra attention. Because aligners fit snugly over your teeth, food particles and bacteria can become trapped between your teeth and beneath the trays if you don’t maintain proper oral hygiene. That’s why daily flossing is especially important when undergoing clear aligner treatment. Here are some helpful tips for making flossing easier and protecting your smile throughout the process.
Why is Daily Flossing Important with Clear Aligners?
Clear aligners are removable, making brushing and flossing easier than with traditional braces. However, that doesn’t mean you can afford to skip either part of your oral hygiene routine.
When you eat, food particles can become lodged between your teeth. Bacteria feed on sugars left behind, producing acids that contribute to tooth decay. Plaque can also accumulate along the gumline and between teeth, increasing your risk of gum inflammation and periodontal disease.
Wearing aligners over teeth that haven’t been properly cleaned can trap food debris and bacteria against tooth surfaces. This creates an environment where cavities and other oral health problems can develop.
Flossing once a day helps remove plaque and food particles from areas your toothbrush cannot effectively reach. It also helps keep your gums healthy, which is important throughout orthodontic treatment.
How to Floss During Clear Aligner Treatment
Remove Your Aligners Before Flossing
The advantage is clear: you can remove them whenever you need to brush or floss. Always take your trays out before cleaning your teeth.
Trying to floss around your aligners isn’t practical and can make it difficult to clean between your teeth properly. Removing them also allows you to reach every tooth surface without obstruction.
After flossing and brushing, rinse your mouth before putting your clean aligners back in.
Choose the Right Flossing Tools
Traditional dental floss works well for many people, but you may find other tools more convenient. Waxed floss can glide more easily between tight teeth, while floss picks may make reaching the back teeth easier.
Water flossers are another option. They use a stream of water to help remove food particles and plaque from between teeth and along the gumline. Although they can be helpful, they shouldn’t automatically replace traditional flossing unless your dentist recommends an appropriate alternative.
Experiment with different options to find what makes daily flossing easiest for you.
Use Proper Flossing Technique
Take your time when flossing to ensure you’re cleaning effectively. Gently guide the floss between two teeth and be gentle when touching the gums. Wrap the floss around each tooth in a C-shape and move it up and down.
Repeat this process between every tooth, including the back molars. If your gums bleed occasionally when beginning a consistent flossing routine, don’t immediately assume something is wrong. However, persistent bleeding or discomfort should be evaluated by your dentist.
Make Flossing Part of Your Daily Routine
Consistency is the name of the game during clear aligner treatment. Aim to floss at least once every day, preferably before bedtime. It’s also helpful to brush after meals before putting your aligners back in.
Keeping floss or floss picks with you can make it easier to clean your teeth when you’re away from home.
Clear aligners can transform your smile, but maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for achieving healthy results. Daily flossing helps prevent cavities, protects your gums, and keeps your teeth clean throughout treatment.
About the Practice
Led by the talented, experienced father-daughter duo of Drs. Davis and Julia Witt, Witt Orthodontics is the perfect place to receive clear aligner treatment. Our office features a convenient in-house orthodontic lab and offers financing so you can achieve the smile of your dreams. Contact us online or call one of our 3 conveniently located offices near you.
