After getting your braces removed, your orthodontist may have recommended that you wear a permanent retainer to help keep your teeth in their new, straight positions. While a permanent retainer is a great way to maintain the results of orthodontic treatment, it can make flossing a bit more challenging.
In this guide, we will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to dental floss with a permanent retainer, so you can keep your teeth and gums healthy and clean. By following these tips and techniques, you can effectively floss around your permanent retainer and maintain optimal oral hygiene.
What is Flossing?
Flossing is the process of using dental floss to clean between teeth and along the gumline. It is an important part of oral hygiene and helps to remove food particles and plaque that can accumulate in areas that a toothbrush cannot reach. Flossing can also help to prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath.
To dental floss, a length of dental floss is wrapped around the fingers and gently inserted between teeth, then moved up and down to remove any debris. Flossing should be done at least once a day, preferably before brushing, to maintain optimal oral health.
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Benefits of Flossing
Flossing has several benefits for oral health. Here are some of the main benefits of flossing:
1. Removes food particles and plaque: Flossing helps to remove food particles and plaque that can accumulate between teeth and along the gumline, which can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath.
2. Prevents gum disease: Flossing can help to prevent gum disease by removing bacteria from between teeth and along the gumline. Gum disease can cause inflammation, bleeding, and even tooth loss if left untreated.
3. Reduces the risk of tooth decay: Flossing can help to reduce the risk of tooth decay by removing bacteria and food particles from areas that a toothbrush cannot reach.
4. Promotes fresh breath: Flossing can help to remove food particles and bacteria that can cause bad breath, promoting fresher breath.
5. Saves money on dental care: Flossing regularly can help to prevent dental problems such as gum disease and tooth decay, which can save money on dental care in the long run.
Overall, flossing is an important part of maintaining good oral hygiene and can have a significant impact on overall oral health.
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How to Floss With Permanent Retainer?
Here are the detailed steps on how to floss with a permanent retainer:
1. Choose the right type of floss: There are several types of dental floss that can work well for flossing around a permanent retainer, including dental floss threaders, super floss, or an interdental brush. You can ask your dentist or orthodontist which type of floss they recommend.
2. Thread the floss: If using dental floss threaders, take a length of floss and thread it through the loop of the threader. If using super floss or an interdental brush, you can skip this step.
3. Insert the floss: Gently insert the floss between your teeth and the permanent retainer. If using a threader, carefully guide the floss through the loop and then insert the loop between your teeth and the retainer.
4. Floss between the teeth: Once the Dental floss is in place, gently move it up and down between the teeth to remove any food particles and plaque. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this could damage the retainer.
5. Repeat on all teeth: Continue flossing between each tooth and the permanent retainer, using a fresh section of floss for each area.
6. Rinse your mouth: After flossing, rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash to remove any loosened debris.
7. Repeat regularly: Make flossing a regular part of your oral hygiene routine and be sure to dental floss around your permanent retainer at least once a day.
By following these steps, you can effectively floss around your permanent retainer and maintain optimal oral hygiene. If you experience any discomfort or difficulty flossing, be sure to talk to your dentist or orthodontist for further guidance.
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