SureSmile clear aligners have completely reshaped the orthodontic landscape, giving patients the ability to achieve their smile goals without any of the hassles or inconveniences of traditional metal braces. That said, if you’re thinking about getting SureSmile for your misaligned teeth or problematic bite, you should know that diligent oral hygiene is a must all throughout your treatment process – and this includes daily flossing! Here are some tips to help you stay on track with this habit and to ensure you’re doing things correctly!
Tip #1. Always Remove Your Aligners Before Flossing
Your SureSmile aligners fit comfortably and precisely over your teeth, and by wearing them for 22 hours every day, they can gradually shift your teeth into healthier, straighter positions. That said, during those brief moments throughout the day when you aren’t wearing your aligners, you should be sure some of that time is spent flossing. The habit prevents food debris from becoming trapped under your aligners and multiplying – but you won’t be able to floss properly while wearing your trays.
Tip #2. Find a Flossing Method That Works for You
When most people picture flossing, they think about the traditional strands of floss that come spooled up. This is one tried-and-true option, but it is not the only one – and you may want something a little more convenient or easy to manipulate, since you’ll already be having to remove your aligners and floss after every meal. Consider dental flossers, which include precut strands of floss attached to plastic handles. Likewise, if you have access to one, an oral irrigator or Waterpik is a great tool for at-home hygiene that can be far easier to use than regular floss.
Tip #3. Floss Even If You’re Away from Home
SureSmile is great for patients who are constantly on the go since they don’t have to worry about their braces holding them back, but if you’re away from home often, you absolutely cannot neglect to floss in between meals! There are several ways to stick with this habit; if you have a small dental kit that you keep other SureSmile supplies, like the storage case, you can include dental floss with these items. Likewise, you can keep floss at work in your desk, in your locker at school, or even in your car glovebox; if you have access to it constantly, you’re more likely to use it!
If you stay the course and keep up with your oral hygiene, which includes flossing daily, you’re far less likely to encounter oral health issues that might set back your SureSmile timeline. This means you can enjoy a healthier, straighter, and more gorgeous smile all the sooner!
About the Practice
The talented team at Moulton Dentistry of Hoover has proudly served patients and families in the Birmingham, AL area for several years, offering a wide variety of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatment options, as well as SureSmile clear aligners. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with the office to schedule an appointment, please feel free to reach out online or call today for more information or assistance. Telephone: (205) 619-2458.