High patient compliance needed
For best results, 20-22 hours a day is required
More difficult to floss and brush between the brackets, requiring extra effort to maintain good hygiene
Require less effort but still need to be brushed and flossed thoroughly
Recommend limiting hard, crunchy, and sticky foods
What to Do: Brush your teeth and appliances after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste
What to Do: Use an antibacterial mouthwash to help kill bacteria and reduce plaque. It helps to clean the areas around your braces that might be hard to brush and keeps your breath fresh.
What to Do: Use orthodontic floss threaders to remove food particles and plaque between teeth, preventing cavities and gum disease. A water flosser is also an excellent tool for anyone with dental appliances that make conventional flossing difficult.
What to Do: If you have fixed appliances in your mouth, avoid sticky, hard, and sugary foods. These can damage your appliance and increase the likelihood of plaque buildup between your teeth.
