Floss Threader

Oral care is extra important when a person is going through orthodontic treatment. When plaque and bacteria sit on the brackets and wires, this will lead to bad breath, possible periodontal disease, and other oral health issues. Dr. Gregory Ross, DDS wants his patients to know that flossing with traditional braces or ceramic braces is made possible with a  floss threader. Allow us to explain what this dental tool is and how it’s used.

 

Floss threaders are designed to floss with ease around orthodontic appliances, dental bridges, and/or dental implants. Cosmetically, they look like nylon loops and you use them by inserting an 18” strand of floss between this loop. After this step is complete, pass the floss threader under or over between the teeth. Remove the threader from the floss, and floss gently back and forth and up and down. Repeat this process and you’ll be left with a clean smile.

If you have questions or concerns regarding orthodontic oral care, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.smilesbyross.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Gregory Ross, DDS call our Forest Lake, MN location at 651-464-6988 or our Hudson, WI location at 715-808-8379.

 

Eliminate Braces Pain with Orthodontic Wax

Orthodontic wax is something you will get very familiar with throughout orthodontic treatment. Orthodontic wax is recommended by Dr. Gregory Ross, DDS, for relief from the pain and irritation caused by wires and brackets. Orthodontic wax protects the gums and the linings of your cheeks, and lips, to provide a comfortable barrier when the sharp end of the wire begins to irritate these areas.

Orthodontic wax is designed to fit easily into your pocket, purse, or backpack, so you can use it wherever and whenever you may need it. Because this dental wax is non-toxic, it’s no big deal if you accidentally swallow a piece. You should apply the wax to the area of discomfort, and remove it before brushing and flossing your teeth. Be sure to reapply the wax regularly, especially after meals, to prevent irritation from getting worse.

If you have questions or concerns regarding orthodontic oral care, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.smilesbyross.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Gregory Ross, DDS call our Forest Lake, MN location at 651-464-6988 or our Hudson, WI location at 715-808-8379.

Plaque Buildup around Braces

Plaque is a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that constantly forms on our teeth and along the gum line. Plaque that is not removed from around the gum line can cause inflammation and irritation to the gums around your teeth. Red, puffy or bleeding gums can be the first signs of gum disease and if not eliminated with proper oral care, it can be detrimental to the metal in your mouth. Dr. Gregory Ross, DDS, encourages patients to maintain a rigorous oral care routine before, during, and after orthodontic treatment.

By brushing twice a day for two minutes in a circular motion, you will eliminate the pesky plaque that food leaves behind. Don’t forget that plaque will linger between the teeth, so it’s important to floss at least once a day as well. You should visit your dentist twice a year for routine cleanings and oral exams. If your oral care routine needs an adjustment, Dr. Gregory Ross, DDS will give you a refresher.

If you have questions or concerns about orthodontic oral care, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.smilesbyross.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Gregory Ross, DDS call our Forest Lake, MN location at 651-464-6988 or our Hudson, WI location at 715-808-8379.

Flossing Teeth with Traditional Braces

You just received traditional braces and because your mouth is full of wire and brackets you may think you never have to floss during the whole stage of orthodontic treatment. Dr. Gregory Ross, DDS is here to tell you to think again. There are still plenty of ways to maneuver around those tools to get your teeth clean and plaque free and you can start with this technique.

• Use waxed floss, because unwaxed floss is more likely to get caught and shred in your braces.


• Use about 18 inches of floss and thread it carefully.


• Take the floss and gently thread it under the main wire of the braces before passing it between two teeth. Then remove the floss and re-thread it under the main wire to pass between the next pair of teeth.


•  Be sure not to snap the floss. Simply move the floss up and down carefully against the side of each tooth.

If you have questions regarding orthodontic oral care, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.smilesbyross.comfor more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Gregory Ross, DDS call our Forest Lake, MN location at 651-464-6988 or our Hudson, WI location at 715-808-8379.