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Product recommendation:
GUM EEZ-Thru Floss Threaders
Floss threaders may also be distributed by your provider at no cost.
Dental Floss Threader
A dental floss threader is a plastic loop in which you add floss through. The threader allows you to insert floss under and behind the orthodontic arch wire to remove any food and debris.
How To:
Prepare 18 inches of waxed floss string (about the length of your finger tips to your elbow).
Tie one end of the floss onto the loop end of the threader.
Slide the threader behind the wire.
Twist floss around your index fingers.
Press the floss in between the two teeth as gently as you can.
Move the floss up and down along the sides of both teeth.
For upper teeth make an upside "U" shape to facilitate movement.
Use same technique through all the teeth.
Proxabrush
Angled handle is effective for hard-to-reach areas.
Reduces bleeding.
May improve periodontal health.
May facilitate flossing.
Use caution during use to prevent damage to gums.
Great for orthodontic patients or use with implants.
How To:
Slide proxabrush under the wire.
Use an up and down motion to remove any food.
Repeat in between brackets.
Waterpik
Although gentle on the gums, it is very effective at removing food and plauqe.
Reduces bleeding in gums.
When irrigating the gums, control water pressure with caution to avoid a strong current.
May be as effective as using a manual toothbrush.
How To:
Mouth Sores From Braces
Mouth sores due to braces are small, common, painful, and uncomfortable sores. Most commonly known as canker sores.
At the beginning of orthodontic treatment, mouth sores can be caused due to friction from braces rubbing against the inside of the lips and cheeks.
As the mouth gets used to the braces and their friction, mouth sores will occur less often.
Prevention/Treatment
Orthodontic Wax
Advantages:
Orthodontic wax is made from natural beeswax or paraffin wax.
Could be bought in stores but is most often provided by providers at no cost.
To use, apply a small amount over the bracket(s) behind the irritated area. Relief should be immediate.
Apply before bed to help prevent mouthsores overnight.
Nontoxic.
Apply as needed.
Disadvantages:
Frequent application may be necessary.
Dental Silicone
Advantages:
Similar to dental wax
To use, apply strip to braces area causing irritation.
Silicone will not flake off so it lasts longer than wax.
Disadvantages:
Less cost-effective than wax.
The area must be dry before applying, which can be tricky for some patients.
Home Treatment
Avoid any spicy foods that will exacerbate sore.
Rinse with salt water and hydrogen peroxide.
Rinse with baking soda and water.
Over-the-counter mouth rinse.
References
Andy, D. (2018, January 24). Mouth sores from braces: Andrew Skorobatckyj, DDS. Andrew W. Skorobatckyj, DDS Orthodontics Blog. Retrieved October 30, 2022, from http://www.skororthodontics.com/blog/treat-prevent-mouth-sores-from-braces/
Brushing and flossing. Brushing and Flossing - Mark S. Mappes, DDS, MS | Nashville Dickson TN. (n.d.). Retrieved October 30, 2022, from https://www.mappesortho.com/brushing-and-flossing
CJOrthodontics. (2015, June 12). Orthodontic proxabrush. YouTube. Retrieved October 30, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tO1PFzjOOMs
Harris, N. O. (2014). Primary preventative dentistry. Pearson.
Higuera, V. (2020, January 8). How to floss properly: Step-by-step guide to flossing teeth. Healthline. Retrieved October 30, 2022, from https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-floss#flossing-with-braces
Types of orthodontic appliances. Types of Orthodontic Appliances| Orthodontist Nashville Dickson TN | Mappes Orthodontics. (n.d.). Retrieved October 30, 2022, from https://www.mappesortho.com/types-of-appliances
WaterPikInc. (2018, January 29). How to use a Waterpik® Water Flosser. YouTube. Retrieved October 30, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmBcEf2jfks
YouTube. (2019, July 19). How to Brush & Floss with braces. YouTube. Retrieved October 30, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fz2cRC_JPjQ
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