How to care for your braces: hygiene and diet

With braces, hygiene matters even more: the wires and attachments trap food and plaque. Caring for them well prevents stains, cavities and bad breath during treatment.

How to brush with braces

1. Brush after every meal, with technique and without rushing.
2. Angle the brush to clean above and below each bracket.
3. Use an interdental brush for the areas between bracket and gum.
4. Complement with floss (with a threader) or a water flosser.

Foods to avoid

• Very hard: ice, nuts, unpopped popcorn (they break brackets).
• Sticky: gum, chewy candy (they pull them off).
• Staining: if you wear aesthetic ties, watch coffee, wine and dark sodas.
• Cut apples, carrots and fibrous foods into small pieces.

Preventing white spots

Poor hygiene around braces can leave white spots (demineralization) that remain visible when they're removed. They're prevented with constant brushing, fluoride use and periodic dental cleanings.

A broken bracket isn't just annoying: it can stop your treatment's progress. Take care when eating.

Did a bracket break?

If a bracket loosens or a wire hurts you, don't wait: contact us to check it. You can use orthodontic wax temporarily to avoid rubbing.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I brush with braces?

Ideally after every meal. If not possible, at least rinse with water and brush as soon as you can.

Can I floss with braces?

Yes, with a threader or special orthodontic floss; a water flosser also helps.

Do white spots go away?

Some improve with treatments, but the best is to prevent them with good hygiene throughout.