Flossing with Traditional Braces

Flossing with traditional braces may seem impossible, but it’s not. If you don’t floss between the brackets and wires, you will develop periodontal disease which will make your gums sensitive, red, and swollen. Dr. Amit Pandya, DDS, will guide you through the process of flossing with traditional braces, but you can start with this simple technique.

• Use waxed floss, because unwaxed floss is more likely to get caught and shred in your braces.


• Use about 18 inches of floss and thread it carefully.


• Take the floss and gently thread it under the main wire of the braces before passing it between two teeth. Then remove the floss and re-thread it under the main wire to pass between the next pair of teeth.


• Be sure not to snap the floss. Simply move the floss up and down carefully against the side of each tooth.

If you have questions or concerns about orthodontic oral care, please give us a call. To set up an appointment with Dr. Amit Pandya, DDS in New Hyde Park, NY, call us at (516) 233-2135 or visit our website, www.goinggrin.com.