Floss threaders and Superfloss are the two simple tools that let you pass floss under a bridge, around an implant or behind a braces wire, where ordinary floss cannot reach. If you have been wondering how to use floss threaders and Superfloss with a bridge, implants or braces, the short version is this: both tools do the same job in slightly different ways, and either can work well when used gently and consistently. This guide explains how each one works, shows the steps, and covers a few alternatives for people who find them fiddly.
Key Takeaways
- A floss threader is a stiff plastic loop that carries regular floss under a bridge, a fixed retainer wire or braces wires.
- Superfloss has a stiff end for threading, a spongy section for wider gaps and a regular section for tight contacts, so it suits many mouths in one product.
- Gentle, slow movements matter more than force. Snapping floss down onto the gum can cause soreness and bleeding.
- Interdental brushes and water flossers are useful alternatives or additions, particularly around implants and larger gaps.
- Bleeding that continues after a week or two of regular, gentle cleaning is worth having checked.
- A hygienist or dentist can demonstrate the right technique in your own mouth, which is often quicker than learning from a video.
Why Bridges, Implants and Braces Trap Plaque
A bridge is a row of joined crowns. The artificial tooth in the middle (the pontic) sits close to the gum, and there is no gap between the joined teeth to slide floss through from the side. Plaque and food can collect on the underside of the pontic and along the gum edge of the supporting teeth. If you would like to know more about how different bridges are built, our guide to types of dental bridges explains the main designs.
Braces create a similar problem in another way. The wire runs across the front of the teeth, so floss cannot be pulled through from the top or the side. A fixed retainer, which is a thin wire bonded behind the front teeth, does the same thing. Plaque left around these areas can irritate the gums and, over time, may contribute to marks on the enamel.
Implants are slightly different. The implant itself cannot decay, but the gum around it can still become inflamed if plaque builds up. Cleaning around an implant crown is part of keeping the tissue healthy, and our article on how to clean dental implants at home goes into more detail.
What Is a Floss Threader?
A floss threader is a small, flexible plastic loop with a handle, a bit like a miniature sewing needle. You thread a length of regular floss through the loop, then pass the pointed end of the threader under the bridge or wire. Once the floss is through, you let go of the threader and use the floss as normal.
Threaders can be useful because you can choose the floss you prefer, whether that is waxed, unwaxed or a wider tape. They are inexpensive and light enough to keep in a bag. The downside is that they take a few extra seconds each time, and the first few attempts can feel clumsy.
How to Use a Floss Threader Step by Step
- Pull off a piece of floss about the length of your forearm.
- Thread one end of the floss through the loop of the threader and pull it halfway so both ends are about even.
- Guide the pointed end of the threader gently under the bridge or between the wire and the tooth, from the cheek side towards the tongue side.
- Pull the floss through until you can hold both ends, then release the threader.
- Wrap the floss lightly into a C shape around the side of the tooth and slide it up and down against the surface, going a little under the gum edge without pushing hard.
- Repeat on the neighbouring tooth, then pull the floss out sideways or re-thread it for the next gap.
What Is Superfloss?
Superfloss is a pre-cut floss with three sections joined together. One end is stiff, like a built-in threader, so you do not need a separate tool. The middle section is thick and spongy, which can pick up plaque from wider spaces and along the underside of a bridge. The remaining section is regular floss for tight contacts between natural teeth.
Because everything is in a single strand, Superfloss tends to be popular with people who find a separate threader awkward. It is sold in packs of pre-cut lengths, so you use a fresh piece for each session. You may find it a little pricier than ordinary floss, and the spongy section can feel bulky in very tight areas.
How to Use Superfloss Step by Step
- Pinch the stiff end and push it under the bridge or behind the braces wire, as you would a threader.
- Pull it through until the spongy section sits in the space under the bridge.
- Hold both ends and slide the spongy part back and forth beneath the pontic, keeping contact with the gum edge and the tooth surface.
- Move along so the regular floss section cleans any tight contacts at the sides.
- Discard the piece and use a fresh one next time.
Floss Threader vs Superfloss: A Quick Comparison
Neither tool is better for everyone. The table below sets out the main differences so you can choose one to start with.
| Feature | Floss threader | Superfloss |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Reusable or single-use plastic loop used with regular floss | Pre-cut floss with a stiff end, spongy section and regular section |
| Handy for | Bridges, braces, fixed retainers, people who prefer a particular floss | Bridges, wider gaps, implants and braces in one product |
| Number of steps | Slightly more, as you thread the floss first | Fewer, as the stiff end is built in |
| Portability | Very small and light | Small, sold in packs |
| Possible drawback | Fiddly at first | Spongy section may feel bulky in tight spaces |
Cleaning Under a Bridge and Around Implants
Under a bridge, the aim is to clean the underside of the pontic and the gum edge on each side. Slide the floss or the spongy part of Superfloss gently back and forth, then curve it around each supporting tooth. Do this once a day, at a time you can be unhurried.
Around an implant, be a little more careful. The gum collar can be tender in the early weeks after the crown is fitted. Using a soft touch and the spongy section of Superfloss, or an interdental brush recommended by your dentist, may be easier on the tissue than a thin, taut floss. If you have an implant-supported bridge, the same under-the-bridge technique applies, and our overview of the implant-supported bridge explains how these are built.
Cleaning Behind Braces and Fixed Retainers
Braces wires cross the gap between teeth, so a threader or Superfloss is usually needed to get under them. Thread the floss under the wire, clean each side of the gap with a gentle C shape, then move on. It can take several minutes at first, and most people speed up with practice.
Fixed retainers need the same approach, as the bonded wire sits across the contacts. If your retainer comes loose or a piece of wire pokes into your lip or tongue, see our advice on what to do with a broken fixed retainer. Many orthodontic patients also find that the right brush makes a difference, so you may like to read about an electric toothbrush versus a manual one for braces.
Alternatives: Interdental Brushes and Water Flossers
Some people simply do not get on with threaders. That is fine. Two common alternatives are worth knowing about.
An interdental brush is a small, bottle-brush style tool that fits into the gaps between teeth or under the end of a bridge. It can be easier to handle than floss and may clean larger spaces well. Our guide on how to use an interdental brush covers sizing and technique.
A water flosser sends a fine jet of water along the gum line and between teeth. Some people find it easier around braces and implants. Research has found that water flossers can help reduce gum bleeding, though they are generally considered a complement to, not a full replacement for, mechanical cleaning in every case. You can read more in our comparison of water flossers versus floss, and step-by-step help in how to use a water flosser.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Snapping floss down onto the gum, which may cause cuts and soreness.
- Rushing, so the threader scratches the gum or catches the wire.
- Reusing the same piece of Superfloss many times, which can leave it frayed and less clean.
- Giving up after a day or two because the gums bleed. Mild bleeding from inflamed gums often settles as the area gets cleaner, but persistent bleeding is a reason to book a review.
Our article on common flossing mistakes lists more habits worth checking.
Common Questions
How often should I use a floss threader or Superfloss?
Once a day is typically the usual recommendation, ideally at night, so plaque does not sit on the gums while you sleep. Your dentist or hygienist can tailor this to your mouth.
Is Superfloss better than a floss threader?
Neither is better for everyone. Superfloss has fewer steps, while a threader lets you pick your preferred floss, so the right choice often comes down to which one you find easier to use consistently.
Can I use floss threaders around dental implants?
Yes, when used gently. A threader or Superfloss may help clean under an implant-supported bridge, and an interdental brush can suit an implant crown with a visible gap. Avoid forcing any tool under the gum.
Why do my gums bleed when I floss under my bridge or braces?
Gums that have been left alone for a while are often inflamed and may bleed easily at first. This typically settles over one to two weeks of gentle daily cleaning, but if it does not, a dental review is worthwhile.
Can I use a water flosser instead of floss with braces?
Many people use a water flosser alongside brushing and some form of interdental cleaning. It can be a helpful addition, though your dentist may still suggest a threader or brush for areas where plaque tends to stick.
Can a hygienist show me how to use these tools?
Yes. A hygienist or dentist can demonstrate the technique in your own mouth and recommend sizes and products that suit your bridge, implants or braces.
Need Help With Your Cleaning Routine?
If you are not sure which tool suits your bridge, implants or braces, the team at Lumi Dental in Melrose Park, Sydney, can show you in person during a visit with one of our general dentists. You can contact us to arrange a free consult and a written quote for any treatment you may need, and you can see our latest offers on the current deals page.
