How do you care for your braces?

1. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, and after every meal. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste. Brush gently in small circles, covering all surfaces of your teeth, including the brackets and wires. Be sure to floss your teeth once a day, using a floss threader or interdental brush to get between the brackets and wires.

2. Avoid eating hard, sticky, or sugary foods. Hard foods can damage your brackets and wires, while sticky and sugary foods can cause cavities. Some foods to avoid include:

* Nuts

* Seeds

* Popcorn

* Hard candy

* Chewy candy

* Ice cubes

* Soda

* Sports drinks

3. Wear your elastics or bands as directed. Elastics or bands are small rubber bands that are used to help correct your bite. Be sure to wear them as directed by your orthodontist, and replace them as needed.

4. Keep your mouth healthy. In addition to brushing and flossing regularly, there are several other things you can do to keep your mouth healthy while you're wearing braces:

* Rinse your mouth with water after eating.

* Use a mouthwash that contains fluoride.

* Avoid smoking.

* See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.

5. Avoid mouth injuries. Mouth injuries can damage your braces and teeth. To avoid mouth injuries, wear a mouthguard when playing sports or doing other activities that could put your mouth at risk.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your braces in good condition and your teeth healthy while you're undergoing orthodontic treatment.