Yes, it is possible and recommended to floss between composite bonded teeth. Composite bonding is a common dental procedure where a tooth-colored resin material is applied to the tooth surface to repair chips or cracks, close gaps, reshape teeth, or cover stains. The resin bonds to the natural tooth structure to create a smooth surface. However, composites don’t fuse the teeth together – there are still small spaces between them where food debris and plaque can collect. That’s why regular flossing between composite bonded teeth is important for oral hygiene.
Why floss between composite bonded teeth?
Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles between teeth that brushing misses. This helps prevent tooth decay and periodontal disease. Reasons to floss between composite bonded teeth include:
Prevent cavities between teeth
Even though composite resins chemically and mechanically bond to the tooth structure, they don’t completely seal the gap between teeth. Bacteria can still accumulate in these spaces and cause decay if not removed regularly by flossing. Flossing clears out food debris and plaque to help prevent cavities from developing between composite bonded teeth.
Maintain healthy gums
Plaque buildup can inflame the gums and cause gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease. Flossing helps disrupt the bacterial colonies and removes plaque from between teeth and just below the gumline where brushing can’t reach. This minimizes gum inflammation.
Avoid bad breath
Decaying food particles and bacteria accumulation between teeth are common causes of bad breath (halitosis). Flossing properly removes these odor-causing agents. This freshens the breath.
Prevent staining
Composite resin restorations can stain over time from foods, drinks, and smoking. Flossing helps remove staining agents like coffee, tea, and red wine from between the teeth before they impart discoloration to the composite material.
Clean around composite edges
Floss is effective at cleaning plaque buildup where the tooth and composite restoration meet. If left alone, this plaque increases the risk of new cavities forming at the restoration margins.
Proper flossing technique for composite bonded teeth
Flossing takes practice to do correctly. Follow these steps for effective flossing between composite bonded teeth:
Use the right type of floss
Traditional string floss works well for most situations. Waxed floss glides smoothly between tighter contacts. For teeth with large gaps or dental work like bridges, braces or wide composite restorations, use thicker ‘super floss’ instead.
Work gently
Avoid snapping the floss between contacts. Use a gentle back-and-forth rubbing motion instead to loosen debris. This protects composite edges from chipping.
Get below the gumline
Curve the floss into a C-shape against the tooth and gently slide it under the gumline. This removes bacteria and food particles from the periodontal pockets.
Floss each tooth thoroughly
Use a clean section of floss as you move from tooth to tooth. Floss each tooth completely, rubbing the sides as well as between contacts. Take time to do a thorough job.
Floss around dental restorations
Carefully floss where composite bonded teeth meet adjacent teeth as well as just below the gumline. This cleans plaque buildup where the restoration edge meets the tooth.
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Use a gentle sawing motion | Snap floss between teeth |
| Curve floss into a C-shape | Avoid gums completely |
| Floss under gumline | Reuse soiled floss |
Best floss for composite bonded teeth
Look for flosses that are:
Slip-resistant
Waxed, textured or tape flosses are less likely to shred and stay tightly pressed between teeth.
Thin
Thinner flosses slide easily between tight composite contacts. They contour better around restoration edges.
Strong
Pre-stretched floss resists breaking when tensioned around bonded teeth. Some brands have fiber-reinforcement for added durability.
Comfortable
Floss that’s gentle on gums makes flossing easier and promotes regular use. Soft, lightly waxed options are suitable.
Alternative flossing options
Those who struggle with traditional flossing can try specialized tools like:
Floss picks
These have a floss strand pre-threaded between a plastic pick. They make reaching back teeth easier. However, the fixed floss length limits access between bonded teeth.
Interdental brushes
For wider spaces, small brush-like cleaners mechanically remove plaque. Conical or Christmas-tree shaped ones work best between bonded teeth.
Oral irrigators
These devices use a water jet stream to flush between teeth. They aren’t as effective as floss for plaque removal, but help clean bonded teeth with large gaps or periodontal disease.
Single-tuft brushes
The rectangular rubber tip fits between tight contacts to clear out debris. They provide an alternative for those unable to floss conventionally.
Tips for effective flossing of bonded teeth
Some tips to improve flossing effectiveness around composite restorations:
Floss before brushing
Flossing first loosens debris for easier removal by brushing. The floss disrupts plaque better when teeth surfaces aren’t slippery with toothpaste.
Rinse away debris
After flossing, rinse the mouth thoroughly with water to wash away residue. This prevents loose material from resettling between teeth.
Floss at night
Flossing at bedtime clears away plaque accumulation from the day’s meals and snacks. This minimizes bacteria growth overnight.
Use plaque disclosing tablets
These temporarily dye plaque buildup pink to reveal areas missed by flossing. They help develop better flossing technique.
Get professional cleanings
See your hygienist every 6 months for plaque and calculus removal from bonded teeth. This supplements your oral hygiene routine.
Potential problems flossing bonded teeth
Some difficulties that may arise include:
Floss shredding
Rough composite edges gradually shred string floss. Use reinforced floss or an interdental cleaner instead.
Bleeding gums
This usually indicates infected gums. See your dentist to treat the gum disease before resuming flossing.
Discomfort
Sensitivity from hot, cold or pressure could signify a cracked composite or cavity needing repair. Report any pain to your dentist promptly.
Recession
Overzealous flossing can cause gums to recede. Use a gentle technique, especially around existing recessions.
Chipped restorations
Tight flossing between bonded teeth risks damaging thin composite edges. Floss carefully and consider alternative cleaners.
Conclusion
Daily flossing removes trapped food particles and plaque between composite bonded teeth. This simple oral hygiene practice helps avoid cavities, gum disease and bad breath. Use proper flossing technique and quality floss designed for tight teeth contacts. See your dentist regularly to supplement home care of bonded teeth restorations and maintain good oral health. Consistent flossing allows you to gain the full benefits of composite bonding for an attractive, functional smile.