Keeping teeth clean is a bit harder with braces. Skipping care can leave white spots and cavities around the brackets, which may stay as permanent marks after the braces come off.
Daily care
- Try to brush after every meal
- Use an orthodontic or interdental brush under the wire
- Use a floss threader or a water flosser
- A fluoride mouthwash helps
Foods to avoid
- Hard foods — nuts, hard sweets, chewing ice
- Sticky foods — chewing gum, caramel
- Whole apples or corn on the cob — cut them into small pieces
If it hurts
Mild soreness for 2-3 days after each adjustment is normal. Eat soft foods, and use orthodontic wax where a wire or bracket rubs.
When to see a dentist
If a bracket comes loose or a wire breaks, contact your orthodontist promptly.