Invisalign aligners make straightening your teeth both discreet and convenient, but they don’t replace the need for good oral hygiene! Flossing is actually more important during Invisalign treatment to prevent plaque buildup and bacteria on your aligners. So, if you’ve never been consistent with flossing before or are unsure how to do it effectively, continue reading. This guide will show you the importance of flossing with Invisalign and walk you through the process step by step.
Why Flossing with Invisalign Is Important
Flossing is a foundational part of maintaining your oral health along with brushing your teeth. Even without considering Invisalign, it helps clear the sticky plaque and food particles that can wedge themselves between your teeth.
What makes it an even more critical step when you’re undergoing clear aligner treatment is the potential for trapping bacteria. After removing your trays and eating, it’s important to brush and floss. However, if you don’t, all the plaque and bacteria can get stuck under your aligners, letting it sit potentially for hours.
This can put your trays at risk for stains and odors, not to mention the strain it can place on your oral health.
How to Floss with Invisalign
Now that you understand why flossing is important, here are the steps you should take to ensure your mouth stays clean and fresh!
Step 1: Remove Your Aligners
Before flossing, always take out your Invisalign trays. You can’t floss with your aligners still in place! Then, rinse your aligners with lukewarm water and set them aside in their case while you floss to keep them safe.
Step 2: Choose Your Floss
There are so many kinds of floss out there that you’re bound to find one that makes the experience more enjoyable. Waxed floss is generally easier to slide between teeth, offering an almost silky feeling. Floss picks are easy and convenient so you can take them everywhere you go. And water flossers are a great addition to your setup that use gently pressurized streams of water for a massage-like feel.
Step 3: Use the Right Technique
Flossing correctly is key to keeping your teeth and gums healthy. So, draw out around 18 inches of floss, about the distance from the tip of your middle finger to your elbow. Then, gently slide it around each tooth, forming a “C” and gently move it up and down. Avoid pushing or snapping the string into your gums, even if you’re using floss picks.
For a water flosser, fill it up with warm water, choose a tip, and use the lowest setting if you’re new to it. Then turn it on and move it along your gumline and between your teeth over the sink.
Flossing may take a little extra effort, but it’s worth it for a healthy, beautiful smile and to avoid delaying your Invisalign treatment. By following this guide, and sticking to a good routine, you can enjoy a clean, confident smile throughout your treatment!
About the Practice
If you want a beautiful, straightened smile our team at Marvel Dental & Orthodontics is ready to assist! We pride ourselves on our quality clear aligners and patient education, allowing you to keep your treatment moving forward smoothly. Whatever help you need, our team is here to ensure your comfort as you achieve the smile of your dreams. Call (682) 772-3072 to schedule a consultation with us or visit our website to explore a menu of our services.