How to Floss with Braces: Tips from Sacks Orthodontics

How to Floss with Braces: Tips from Sacks Orthodontics

Flossing with braces takes a little more time, but it’s a crucial part of keeping your teeth and gums healthy throughout treatment. If you're not sure how to get started — don’t worry! In this quick video, Kyle from our team at Sacks Orthodontics shows you exactly how to floss with braces using a floss threader, along with an easier alternative for busy days.

Step-by-Step: Flossing with a Floss Threader

Flossing is just as important as brushing when you have braces — maybe even more so. Braces create extra places for food and plaque to hide, and skipping flossing can lead to gum irritation, cavities, or staining around your brackets. If you’re wondering when to floss or how often you should do it, we’ve got you covered in this blog post all about flossing frequency →.

Now let’s break down exactly how to floss with braces — and what to do if traditional flossing feels like a hassle:

1. Start with the Floss Threader

Take a small piece of floss and thread it through the loop at the end of the floss threader.

2. Guide It Under the Wire

Slide the threader gently underneath the archwire of your braces. Once the floss is through, pull it all the way in so you can access the space between your teeth.

3. Floss Between Your Teeth

Wrap the floss around each tooth in a “C” shape and slide it gently up and down. Then move on to the next space by repeating the threading process.

4. Try a Water Flosser

If the threader feels like too much hassle some days, a water flosser is a great alternative. It’s faster, easier, and still effective at removing food and plaque around your brackets and gumline.

Complete Your Oral Hygiene Routine

Flossing is only one part of a healthy braces routine. If you haven’t already, check out our step-by-step guide to brushing with braces to make sure your smile stays clean and cavity-free throughout your treatment.

Thinking about braces for yourself or your child?

Schedule a free consultation with Sacks Orthodontics to find out if braces are the right fit. We’re here to answer your questions and guide you every step of the way.