Flossing question

Message

#1 Post by **JessKoeh88** » Mon Mar 24, 2008 10:34 pm

Hey guys, I'm new around here...just got braces on Friday. I flossed for the first time this evening; it took me about 20 minutes since I had to get the hang of using the floss threader thing, haha. But other than that it wasn't too painful or hard.

Anyways, my question is how do I floss my upper back teeth? I cant figure out how to reach back there! I got the bottom one's alright, but it took some work. I had to kinda pull my mouth open with one hand and work the floss with the other, then reach in and grab the threader with one hand and pull it out so I could floss! Not fun, but I'm sure you've all been there, done that!

Any advice?

Thanks!

#2 Post by **muppet** » Tue Mar 25, 2008 12:49 am

Hi,

Congrats on joining the brace club!!

I've never tried a floss threader but use oral B superfloss as it has a stiff end that you can easily thread under the wire without being to bulky. It's quite thick though so may be uncomfortable if your teeth are crowded. It's not for everyone but it works for me!

#3 Post by **HeyTeach** » Tue Mar 25, 2008 6:08 am

Had my lower arch braced for awhile and that is easy to floss. Yes the upper back teeth are hard to get to! Super Floss or Glide threader floss (thinner) have stiff ends and are easier to thread through, but it still takes some work. I am getting used to it after a week.

#4 Post by **Thathrill** » Tue Mar 25, 2008 6:38 am

Hey, Ive been there. Took me 20-30min to floss the first few times. I found that using a threader loop and regular floss is a pain and really time consuming. With practice, you'll get the hang of it. Prior to bracing it would take me like 3min to floss. Now I am about 5min or less. I use Crest's Glide threader floss. I have gotten to the point where I don't use a mirror either. I usually floss while watching tv. lol