Five Cool Reasons To Love Floss—Especially While You Have Braces!

For as long as humans have chewed food (that’s a long time) they’ve looked for ways to rid themselves of bits and pieces caught between their teeth. If you have braces, you’ve noticed that food gets stuck in your teeth more than ever. Unfortunately, it’s also harder than ever to floss. But don’t let that stop you! Proper oral hygiene takes longer while you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment, but we promise, it’s worth it.

Dental Floss Is Awesome

You may not think about it very often but around our practice, we think modern dental floss is amazing stuff. Really. Some history buffs trace its origins to Dr. Levi Spear Parmly of New Orleans, who recommended that patients start using strands of silk to clear out the spaces between their teeth.

That was back in 1815. Since then, modern dentistry has learned just how powerful flossing is. It’s not JUST for removing annoying food particles between teeth.

Five Cool Reasons You Should Love Dental Floss

1. Dental floss is super handy!

Floss is great for tying up decorations, cutting dough for pastries, and it has even been used in a few infamous prison escapes (though of course, our team doesn’t recommend that).

2. Dental floss is a great value.

For just a few dollars you can prevent costly dental procedures down the road.

3. Dental floss helps your mouth feel cleaner and fights bad breath.

Your toothbrush can’t reach every surface of your tooth—especially while you’re in braces! Floss cleans the spaces between your teeth and it can also help clear the spaces between brackets.

4. Dental floss could save your teeth.

Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss. Flossing helps keep your gums healthy, and your teeth where they belong. You’ve worked way too hard getting your teeth straight to let them start falling out!

5. Dental floss could save your life.

We don’t mean to sound overly dramatic, but many health professionals believe that unhealthy gums can actually increase your risk for other major health issues including lung disorders, heart disease, and early-term labor.

Make Sure You Spend Extra Time On Your Teeth Every Night While You’re In Braces

Some believe that it’s impossible to really floss while you have braces. But our team wants you to know that that’s a myth! Flossing and brushing WILL take extra time. But it will ensure that you don’t have damage to your enamel when we remove your braces. Make a resolve to put in 5 minutes morning and night every day to protect your beautiful smile.

If you’re having trouble, think about using about using a floss threader to help you string floss through the wires. Ask our team for advice about flossing with braces. We’re here to help!

Questions For Us?

If you have ANY questions about your oral health, or you’d like to share a story about how you’ve become a “floss believer”, let us know! Comment below, post on our Facebook page, or of course you can always call us.

 Thanks again for being our valued patient and friend!