If your kids are wearing braces, congratulations – you have already done something terrific for their teeth.  However, while your children wear braces you need to ensure they are taking proper care of their teeth so they look great when the braces are removed.

Good oral hygiene is essential with braces because food particles and plaque can get caught in the small spaces in between braces and wires, causing tooth decay and stains on the tooth enamel.  Food may also react to bacteria in your child's mouth and the metal braces causing a bleaching effect that create small light spots.  Because of all this, it is necessary to have clean teeth and braces at all times.

Children should brush after every  meal.  You may want to give your child a small portable toothbrush to use at school and after school activities to keep their teeth and braces as clean as possible.  A floss threader or special orthodontic floss can be used daily to clean between the braces and under wiring.  When your child does not have a toothbrush, advise them to vigorously rinse their mouth out with water after eating to get rid of food particles.

You should also advise kids with braces to avoid soda and sugary snacks that promote tooth decay.  Sticky foods such as chewing gum, dried fruits, caramel and taffy are completely off limits because they can get stuck on braces and become difficult to remove.  Healthy snacks that are hard to chew, like apples and carrots, should be cut up before eating to avoid damaging wires.

With a bit of extra care and attention, your kids' teeth will look much better after braces with no telltale signs of decay.