When you start Invisalign, you’ll have to build a tray routine to keep your smile clean throughout the day. Brushing is one part you’ll have to be consistent with, but don’t forget about flossing. This simple habit can go a long way in reducing your risk of cavities, gum disease, and the like. Here’s a quick guide to help you stick to this step of your dental hygiene.
Why Is Flossing Important?
Even if you aren’t undergoing orthodontics, flossing is important to remove plaque between your teeth. Brushing alone can clean about 60% of your smile, but the bristles can’t reach these tight spaces and underneath your gumline. However, dental floss can!
With Invisalign, this habit becomes more important because debris and bacteria can get trapped between your trays and teeth if you don’t clean them off. They will be able to linger for much longer than normal as you’ll wear your aligners for 22 hours every day. Oral health issues may be more likely, and you can develop decay, infection, or delays in your results.
When Do You Need to Floss with Invisalign?
It’s recommended to floss once a day before bed, but you’ll need to do it consistently with Invisalign. In short, you should do it after you eat. Many people might struggle with doing it more often, but it’s well worth it, as you can do your best to keep your time with your trays smooth.
How to Properly Floss
Since flossing is important with Invisalign, you should be doing it right. Here’s a step-by-step guide to follow:
- Remove your trays, rinse them, and place them into their case.
- Cut a piece of floss about 18 inches long and wrap it around your fingers.
- Slide it between your teeth and hold it against a tooth to form a “C” shape.
- Move it up, down, and under your gumline.
- Repeat this across each side of your teeth.
- Rinse your mouth, brush, and put your aligners back in.
Flossing with Invisalign doesn’t have to be tricky. By following the guide above, you can get used to doing it properly. The more you stick with it, it will soon become second nature to you. That way, you ensure your journey to a straighter smile goes more smoothly.
About the Practice
Interested in Invisalign? Our team at Baltimore Dental Arts is dedicated to helping patients correct their misalignment and malocclusion with effective clear aligners. Led by compassionate dentists, we stay by your side throughout your time with your trays. That way, you understand how to build a routine that avoids delays. If you need help adjusting to your treatment, schedule an appointment or call our office at 410-372-0202.