Butler flossmate
A floss threader helps guide dental floss beneath bridges, around braces, and between teeth that are difficult to clean.
The short answer
A Butler FlossMate is a reusable floss-threading aid that holds or guides floss into tight spaces, including beneath bridges and around orthodontic wires.
Why might ordinary floss be difficult to use?
The clinical subject is interdental cleaning when ordinary floss cannot pass easily. A threader carries floss under a pontic or retainer and along the tooth surfaces, where plaque collects at the gum margin.
How should you guide floss beneath a bridge or wire?
Thread the floss under the bridge or wire, then curve it into a C shape against each tooth and move it gently below the gum edge. Rinse the device, let it dry, and replace it if it becomes rough, bent, or contaminated.
When does repeated floss catching need examination?
Arrange an examination if floss repeatedly catches, shreds, or cannot pass, because a rough restoration, calculus, crowding, or gum swelling may be blocking the space. Seek prompt care for persistent bleeding, pain, pus, or a loose bridge or wire.
What should you ask about cleaning each space?
Ask which floss, threader, interdental brush, or water flosser fits each space. Ask the dentist to demonstrate the path under your bridge or around your appliance and check whether a restoration needs adjustment.
Frequently asked questions
Can a floss threader replace brushing?
No. It reaches between teeth and under appliances, while brushing cleans exposed tooth surfaces.
Why does floss tear under my bridge?
Tearing can result from a tight contact, rough cement, calculus, or a damaged restoration that needs examination.
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Who wrote this page
This library is published by Dental Nation, a licensed dental group practising in the United Arab Emirates. Pages are written and overseen by the same clinical team that treats patients in our clinics, and are held to a fixed editorial standard for safety and accuracy.
This page is patient education, not medical advice, and cannot replace an examination. Anything urgent — facial swelling, trauma, uncontrolled bleeding or severe pain — needs a dentist or emergency care now.