Flossing with Invisalign: Tips on How to Do It and Why It’s Important

Flossing with braces? A real pain. But flossing with removeable Invisalign clear aligners? A walk in the park! However, because you’ll be wearing your aligners for 20 to 22 hours each day, keeping your teeth clean is more important than ever. Food particles and plaque left between your teeth can become trapped beneath your aligners, increasing your risk of cavities, bad breath, and gum disease. Let’s talk about how to floss properly while undergoing Invisalign treatment.

Step 1: Remove Your Aligners

Before eating, brushing, or flossing, always remove your Invisalign aligners. Never attempt to floss while wearing them.

After removing your aligners, rinse them with lukewarm water and clean them according to your dentist’s instructions. This helps prevent bacteria and plaque from building up on the trays while you’re cleaning your teeth.

Step 2: Floss Between Every Tooth

Using traditional dental floss, gently slide the floss between each tooth. Curve the floss into a “C” shape around one tooth and move it up and down several times before repeating the process on the neighboring tooth.

Be sure to floss beneath the gumline without forcing the floss or snapping it into your gums, which can cause irritation or bleeding. Taking your time helps remove plaque from areas your toothbrush can’t reach.

If you find string floss difficult to use, floss picks or a water flosser may be effective alternatives. Ask your dentist which option is best for your needs.

Step 3: Brush Before Reinserting Your Aligners

After you’re done flossing, brush your teeth thoroughly with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brushing removes any remaining food particles and plaque so you don’t trap them underneath your aligners.

If you’re not in a position to brush after a meal, at least rinse your mouth thoroughly with water before putting your aligners back in. But remember – brushing and flossing are still the best way to protect your teeth during treatment.

Step 4: Clean Your Aligners

Before putting your aligners back in, make sure they’re clean. Gently brush them with a soft toothbrush or use the cleaning products recommended by your dentist. Avoid using hot water; it can warp the plastic and affect the fit of your aligners.

Clean aligners not only look better but also help reduce bacteria and unpleasant odors.

By removing your aligners before flossing, cleaning thoroughly between every tooth, brushing before reinserting your trays, and keeping your aligners clean, you’ll help protect your oral health throughout your Invisalign journey. If you have questions about caring for your teeth or your aligners, your dental team will be happy to help!

About the Author

Are you looking for an expert to handle your Invisalign treatment? Dr. Shandy Condie is a Silver Level Invisalign Provider and has completed advanced training in cosmetic dentistry through the prestigious Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. She holds a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the Creighton School of Dentistry and still takes several hours of continuing education every year to expand her knowledge and skills. Dr. Condie and our experienced, compassionate team of professionals at Desert Springs Dental welcome you to our practice if you’re ready to achieve a straighter, healthier smile. Book online or call our Gilbert office at (480) 279-3100.