Traditional metal braces are a tried-and-proven way to straighten out misaligned smiles, but many people hesitate to commit to the conspicuous, irremovable, and uncomfortable wires and brackets of braces and the troublesome dietary restrictions they require. Fortunately, clear aligners are an effective orthodontic treatment that many patients report to be far more comfortable and convenient than traditional braces. Since proper oral hygiene is essential to effective clear aligner treatment, here’s a brief guide to flossing while undergoing the process.
How Do Clear Aligners Work?
Each clear aligner is customized to snugly fit the patient’s teeth while gradually shifting them into healthier positions. When you begin the treatment, your dentist will measure your teeth and use the data to manufacture a personalized sequence of aligners. You will need to wear each set of aligners for at least twenty hours every day for about two weeks before moving on to the next set in the sequence. Each pair will move your teeth a little closer to where they should be, and you should notice results well before you end the treatment with a beautifully realigned smile.
What Are the Perks of Clear Aligners?
Clear aligners offer several advantages that traditional braces cannot match, such as:
- Discreet appearance: Clear aligners are made from transparent and incredibly thin plastic, allowing patients to wear them without anyone else noticing.
- Completely removable appliances: Clear aligners can be easily removed at any time, but you’ll ideally only remove them for snacks, meals, oral hygiene sessions, or drinking anything other than water.
- Easier hygiene: Since clear aligners are removable, you won’t need any special tools or rituals to clean your teeth.
How Should I Floss with Clear Aligners?
One of the many wonderful things about clear aligner treatment is that it doesn’t require any changes to your flossing technique. After removing and storing your aligners, cut a piece of floss of about eighteen inches from the package and hold an inch or two taught between your hands. Slide this section between two teeth and work it up and down and side to side against either edge. When finished, gently remove the floss, move on to a clean section, and repeat these steps with the next pair of teeth. Continue this process until your whole smile has been cleaned.
It’s important to brush and floss each time before putting your aligners back on your teeth to prevent unsightly dental stains and tooth decay that can cause delays in treatment. If you practice excellent oral hygiene while wearing your clear aligners sufficiently every day, you can achieve the best possible results from treatment.
About the Author
Dr. Paul Samia earned his dental degree at the Touro College of Dental Medicine at New York Medical College and has advanced training in specialized treatments such as dental implants. He earned his Fellowship in Implantology through the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and participates in numerous charitable programs. His office in Garner offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as clear aligner treatments. To learn more about oral hygiene with clear aligners, contact his office online or dial (919) 779-2818.