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If you have braces, maintaining good oral hygiene becomes increasingly important. Having braces makes it difficult to clean between teeth and around wires and brackets. An oral irrigator, also known as a water flosser, can greatly assist in this process. We will walk you through the steps on how to use a water flosser with braces for proper oral care during your orthodontic treatment in this article.

Choosing the Right Water Flosser

In order to be used with braces, consider a water flosser that has adjustable pressure settings. There are several types and models available on the market. With this feature, you can adjust the water pressure to a comfortable level while still removing plaque and food particles effectively.

The second step is to fill the reservoir

The water flosser’s reservoir should be filled with lukewarm water. Avoid using cold or hot water as extreme temperatures may cause sensitivity. You can also add an antimicrobial or fluoridated mouthwash if desired. To ensure your mouthwash is suitable for your braces, talk to your orthodontist or dentist before adding it.

The third step is to adjust the pressure

When using the water flosser for the first time or if your gums are sensitive, start at the lowest pressure setting. You can gradually increase the pressure as you become more comfortable. Water pressure should be sufficient to remove debris but not so high that it causes discomfort or gum irritation.

The fourth step is to position the tip

Attach the orthodontic tip, specifically designed for braces, to the water flosser. The orthodontic tip has a tapered brush-like shape that allows you to effectively clean around brackets, wires, and other orthodontic appliances. Place the flosser tip at a 90-degree angle to the gumline.

5: Floss between braces and teeth

Starting from the back of your mouth, place the flosser tip between the teeth and braces. Move the flosser tip gently along the gumline, removing plaque and food particles. Carefully clean each tooth and bracket thoroughly, paying special attention to crevices and hard-to-reach spots created by braces and wires.

The sixth step is to clean all areas

Clean between each tooth and around every bracket by moving the water flosser tip along the gumline. Make sure the water flows toward the gumline and keeps the tip just above the brackets. Be systematic and ensure you cover all parts of your mouth. Spit out any excess water or debris as needed, allowing the water to flow out into the sink.

Rinse and repeat step 7

After the water flossing process has been completed, thoroughly rinse your mouth with water to remove any remaining debris. If desired, you can follow up with a gentle fluoride mouthwash to further promote oral health. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when cleaning your water flosser.

A water flosser is a great addition to your oral hygiene routine if you are wearing braces. It can effectively remove plaque and food particles from more difficult-to-reach places. Using the water flosser should supplement, not take the place of, regular brushing and flossing with more conventional methods. It is important to speak to your orthodontist or dentist for tailored advice about how to care for your teeth while undergoing orthodontic treatment. By using the water flosser in combination with proper cleaning habits, your teeth and braces are sure to remain clean and healthy through the entire process.

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