East Amherst, NY
A 23-year-old female asked:
How can i get rid of swollen gums if my braces don't allow me to floss, and i don't have special tools to do it?
3 doctor answers • 6 doctors weighed in
Dr. Charles Kattuahanswered
Dentistry 25 years experience
Threader/proxibrush: You should be able to floss (although it is more difficult) by using floss threaders to loop the floss under the arch wire. I like the type made by butler/gum. You can also pick up a proxibrush. The same company makes many varieties, shapes, sizes. It looks like a small bottle brush on a handle. Go to a drug store and browse the dental hygiene aids aisle, you'll find all this stuff and more to help.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Michael Teitelbaumanswered
Dentistry 34 years experience
Get a waterpik: You'll need something special. Either a water blaster, like a waterpik, special floss threader, or floss. You shouldn't think about metal innstruments.
Also, you should be getting your teeth cleaned at least 3 times per year, if not 4.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Arnold Malermananswered
Orthodontics 55 years experience
Maniy choices: With a floss threader flossingr is possible, although tedious. You can use a rubber tip or small pointed proxy brush as an inexpensive substitute for floss. Best choice, get a water pik and use it every day. It will make your gums much healthier, make your adjustments easier, and will dramatically shorten your time in braces.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Dec 26, 2014
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