Invisalign clear aligner treatment comes with a long list of advantages, not the least of which is the fact that the aligners are removable. Whether you want to indulge in a delicious treat or go treatment-free for a special occasion, Invisalign is easy to remove from the mouth. Of course, the removability of the aligners is also important when it comes to oral hygiene. This blog post discusses just one aspect of keeping your smile clean and fresh throughout your treatment period — flossing with Invisalign in Auburn.
The Importance of Flossing
Flossing is important for pretty much everyone, but it is especially critical for Invisalign patients. After you consume a meal, your teeth should be clean before your aligners slide back onto your teeth. If any food particles get trapped inside Invisalign, your risk of developing cavities and bad breath increases. Your aligners may also start to change color.
Brushing after meals removes a large portion of any food debris and plaque in your mouth. However, your brush cannot thoroughly clean the tight spaces between your teeth, particularly if your teeth are crowded together. Floss is the best way to clean those hard-to-reach areas.
How to Floss with Invisalign
In many ways, flossing with Invisalign is the same as flossing without it. You should:
- Start off with around 18 inches of floss.
- Twist the floss around your middle fingers, and keep it taut while you carefully insert it between your teeth.
- Move the floss along the sides of both teeth that surround a space (rather than simply inserting the floss and removing it).
- Roll the floss to a clean section as you move from tooth to tooth.
Generally speaking, it is better to floss before you brush. Floss removes particles that might otherwise become a barrier between your teeth and the fluoride in your toothpaste.
Tips to Make Flossing Easier
If regularly flossing is a challenge for you, you are far from alone. Here are some practical tips that might make it easier for you to adopt this important habit:
- Choose the right floss. Floss comes in different textures, flavors, and thicknesses. You might have to try several different products before you find one that is comfortable for you.
- Be gentle. Bleeding and discomfort are more likely if you snap the floss between your teeth. Instead, maneuver it purposefully, gently, and carefully.
- Try alternatives to floss. Pre-threaded flossers and water flossers are not quite as effective as old-fashioned string floss. However, they can be acceptable options for people who struggle to use traditional methods.
Flossing is a vital part of effective oral hygiene, especially for people who are undergoing Invisalign treatment. Try to do it after every meal to maintain a fresh and healthy smile.
Meet the Practice
The dentists at Willow Run Dental Association are proud to provide a broad range of treatments, including Invisalign. If you are interested in straightening your teeth, or you have questions about what to expect from orthodontic services, our team is ready to speak with you. Contact us at 207-352-2825.