During treatment

Adequate tooth brushing and flossing is paramount when braces are fitted. You will be shown how to brush and floss when the braces are first placed. Please ensure that you brush as instructed. Use the disclosing tablets supplied to self-check that you are doing a good job.

You may also need to carefully consider your diet to avoid consuming acidic food and drink.

Orthodontic appliances do not cause cavities, but because of their presence, plaque and food particles are retained more readily and the cavity potential is increased.

How to clean your braces.

1. Use a dry brush with a small amount of toothpaste
2. Place bristles where gum and teeth meet
3. Use a circular, vibrating motion around the gum line, spending about 10 seconds around each tooth
4. Brush slowly around each arch (upper and lower teeth) separately. Concentrating on every tooth
5. Brush the lower teeth upwards and the upper teeth downwards
6. Brush the roof of your mouth and tongue too

Foods to avoid while undergoing treatment.

When you start wearing braces you should avoid the following foods;

• Chewy foods: crusts, hard rolls, liquorice
• Crunchy foods: popcorn, ice, chips
• Sticky foods: caramels, gum
• Hard foods: nuts, candy
• Foods you have to bite into: corn on the cob, apples, carrots

Chewing on hard things (for example, pens, pencils, or fingernails) can damage the braces. Damaged braces will cause treatment to take longer.