What is the best type of floss for patients with braces?

For patients with braces, the best type of floss is orthodontic floss or floss threaders. This type of floss is specifically designed to accommodate the unique challenges presented by braces. The presence of brackets and wires makes it difficult to use standard floss effectively. Orthodontic floss is typically thicker and has a spongy texture, allowing it to navigate around the wires and between the teeth while cleaning all surfaces effectively.

Floss threaders, which resemble a needle, allow for the easy insertion of floss behind the brackets and wires, ensuring that even hard-to-reach areas are cleansed thoroughly. Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for patients with braces to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease, and using orthodontic floss or floss threaders facilitates this process effectively.

In contrast, waxed dental floss, floss picks, and unwaxed dental floss may not provide the same level of effectiveness for users with braces because they can struggle to access the spaces between brackets and wires. Thus, these options may not clean the teeth thoroughly or could even damage the appliance. Therefore, orthodontic floss or floss threaders are the optimal choice for ensuring proper oral hygiene in orthodontic patients.