Flossing with Traditional Braces

Because food can become trapped in the brackets and wires that accompany traditional braces, it’s important that your oral care routine is better than ever. Flossing is essential when it comes to preventing periodontal disease, gum inflammation, and bad breath, with or without braces. You may find flossing difficult at first, but Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS of Bayberry Dental Care is happy to teach you how to floss with traditional braces until you get it right.  

• Use waxed floss, because unwaxed floss is more likely to get caught and shred in your braces.


• Use about 18 inches of floss and thread it carefully.


• Take the floss and gently thread it under the main wire of the braces before passing it between two teeth. Then remove the floss and re-thread it under the main wire to pass between the next pair of teeth.


• Be sure not to snap the floss. Simply move the floss up and down carefully against the side of each tooth.

If you have questions or concerns regarding orthodontic oral care, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at our practice, visit www.bayberrydentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kathleen Falsey, DDS in our Tinley Park, IL office, call Bayberry Dental Care at 708-802-8300.