Getting braces is a big step toward a straighter smile, but it also means upping your oral hygiene game. Food gets trapped easily, and brushing alone just doesn’t cut it. That’s where flossers for braces come in handy. They’re designed to navigate around wires and brackets, making flossing a whole lot easier and more effective. I remember when I had braces, flossing felt like a never-ending chore until I discovered these little helpers!
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Platypus Orthodontic Flossers: Designed specifically to fit under the archwire.
- Oral-B Superfloss: Pre-cut strands with a stiffened end for easy threading.
- GUM Eez-Thru Floss Threaders: Simple and effective for traditional floss.
- Waterpik Cordless Water Flosser: Water-based cleaning for a thorough rinse.
- Cocofloss for Braces: Gentle yet effective, with a textured surface.
Top 5 Best Flossers For Braces
1. Platypus Orthodontic Flossers
Platypus flossers are specifically designed for people with braces. Their unique shape allows them to easily slide under the archwire, making flossing much quicker and more efficient. They’re a game-changer if you’re tired of struggling with regular floss.
Pros:
- ✅ Designed specifically for braces.
- ✅ Easy to use and saves time.
- ✅ Helps maintain good oral hygiene.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey compared to regular floss.
- ❌ Some users find the handle a little short.
- ❌ Not as readily available in all stores.
Verdict: If you have braces, these flossers are a worthwhile investment for their convenience and effectiveness. They really do make flossing less of a hassle.
2. Oral-B Superfloss
Oral-B Superfloss comes in pre-cut strands with a stiffened end, a spongy floss section, and a regular floss section. The stiff end makes threading behind the archwire much easier, while the spongy floss cleans around the brackets and wider gaps.
Pros:
- ✅ Pre-cut strands for convenience.
- ✅ Stiffened end for easy threading.
- ✅ Three unique sections for thorough cleaning.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit wasteful due to individual packaging.
- ❌ Some find the spongy floss too thick for tight spaces.
- ❌ Requires a bit of technique to use effectively.
Verdict: Superfloss is a great option if you prefer traditional floss but need help threading it behind your braces. The different sections provide a comprehensive clean.
3. GUM Eez-Thru Floss Threaders
GUM Eez-Thru Floss Threaders don’t actually include floss, but they are small, flexible loops that help you thread regular floss behind your braces. You simply insert the floss through the loop, thread the threader behind the wire, and then floss as usual.
Pros:
- ✅ Economical option since you can use your preferred floss.
- ✅ Easy to use and reusable.
- ✅ Small and portable.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires you to purchase floss separately.
- ❌ A little more time-consuming than pre-threaded options.
- ❌ Can be tricky to hold if you have dexterity issues.
Verdict: If you love your regular floss and just need help getting it behind your braces, GUM Eez-Thru Floss Threaders are a cost-effective solution.
4. Waterpik Cordless Water Flosser
The Waterpik Cordless Water Flosser uses a stream of pressurized water to clean between teeth and around braces. It’s a great alternative to traditional flossing, especially if you find it difficult or uncomfortable to maneuver floss around your hardware. I remember wishing these existed when I had braces; it would have saved me so much time!
Pros:
- ✅ Effective at removing plaque and food debris.
- ✅ Gentle on gums.
- ✅ Cordless and portable.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit messy to use initially.
- ❌ Requires charging.
- ❌ More expensive than traditional floss options.
Verdict: If you’re looking for a convenient and effective way to clean around your braces, a water flosser like the Waterpik is a great choice. It’s especially good for those with sensitive gums.
5. Cocofloss for Braces
Cocofloss is known for its unique textured surface that helps to grab plaque and debris effectively. While not specifically designed for braces, Cocofloss can be used with floss threaders to navigate around the wires and brackets. Its gentle texture is great for sensitive gums often associated with wearing braces.
Pros:
- ✅ Soft and gentle on gums.
- ✅ Textured surface for effective cleaning.
- ✅ Variety of pleasant scents.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires floss threaders for use with braces.
- ❌ More expensive than standard floss.
- ❌ May not be as durable as some other floss options.
Verdict: Cocofloss is a good option if you want a gentle yet effective floss and are willing to use it with floss threaders. The fun scents are a nice bonus!
Buying Guide
Choosing the right flosser for braces can feel overwhelming, but here are a few things to consider:
- Type of Flosser: Do you prefer traditional floss, pre-threaded flossers, or a water flosser? Consider your dexterity and comfort level.
- Ease of Use: Look for flossers that are easy to thread behind your braces and comfortable to hold.
- Effectiveness: Make sure the flosser effectively removes plaque and food debris from around your brackets and between your teeth.
- Gum Sensitivity: If you have sensitive gums, opt for a softer floss or a water flosser.
- Budget: Flossers range in price, so consider how much you’re willing to spend. Pre-threaded options can be more expensive in the long run.
FAQs
Q: How often should I floss with braces?
A: You should floss at least once a day, preferably before bed, to remove plaque and food particles that accumulate throughout the day.
Q: Can I use regular floss with braces?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to use floss threaders to get the floss behind the archwire. Floss designed specifically for braces can be easier to use.
Q: Are water flossers effective for cleaning braces?
A: Water flossers are very effective at removing plaque and food debris around braces. They can be a great alternative to traditional floss, especially if you find it difficult to maneuver floss around your hardware.
Q: My gums bleed when I floss. Is this normal?
A: It’s common for gums to bleed slightly when you first start flossing, especially with braces. However, if the bleeding is excessive or persists, talk to your orthodontist or dentist.
Q: Can I reuse floss threaders?
A: Yes, you can reuse floss threaders as long as they are still in good condition. Rinse them thoroughly after each use and replace them when they become frayed or damaged.
Conclusion
Finding the right flosser for your braces can make a huge difference in your oral hygiene routine. Whether you choose pre-threaded flossers, floss threaders with regular floss, or a water flosser, the key is to find a method that you can consistently stick with. A little extra effort now will pay off with a healthier, straighter smile in the future. Good luck!
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