Braces
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Food and plaque can get trapped in the tiny spaces between braces and wires, causing decay and enamel stains.
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Your teen should brush after every meal and use a floss threader or special orthodontic floss (available at drug stores) at least once a day to clean between braces and under wires.
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When your teen brushes, they should check their teeth in a mirror to make sure all food particles are gone and then rinse vigorously with water. Use a disclosing tablet or solution.
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Sweets should be limited. Soft drinks, like soda or pop, should be eliminated from their diet.
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Sticky and chewy foods (caramel, taffy, chewing gum, dried fruits) can stick to braces and be difficult to remove, and they cause cavities.
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Biting and chewing hard foods, such as candies, nuts, or ice, can break wires and loosen brackets.
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Help your teen avoid damaging wires on the front teeth. Cut carrots, apples and other crunchy, healthy foods into bite-sized chunks before eating.
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Get fluoride treatments from your dental professional.
