Your aim when brushing your teeth is to remove all plaque and food debris from your teeth and appliances. Plaque is a thin, colourless film made up of bacteria (germs) and food debris. It will completely cover all surfaces of the teeth within one day of being brushed away. The bacteria feed on sugars and produce acids, which attack the tooth enamel and cause decay. The bacteria also irritate the gums around the teeth, causing gingivitis (gum disease).

Gingivitis symptoms include puffy, swollen, shiny red gums that bleed easily when touched or brushed. Gentle, meticulous brushing along the gum line should improve this condition.

Remember: Your braces will trap food and plaque easily, increasing the chances of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath (halitosis).

Brushing should be done at least twice a day — morning and night. Ideally, brushing after every meal will help keep your mouth healthier.

Plaque and food debris are soft, so gentle brushing with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush is required. Orthodontic toothbrushes are available, which are shaped to clean around the braces and wire. Powered toothbrushes are also suitable to use.

Use a toothpaste containing fluoride, which will strengthen the enamel.

Always follow a pattern when brushing to ensure all surfaces are cleaned. If brushing carefully and correctly, it should take approximately 3–4 minutes.

Your toothbrush may need replacing more frequently than before.

Small interproximal (Christmas tree) brushes can be used between the teeth and under the wire in those hard-to-reach spots.

Flossing can be achieved using Superfloss or floss threaders.

Please note: Our staff will offer advice and instruction in oral hygiene if needed — please don’t hesitate to ask for help.

Some foods must be avoided due to their decay risk and to prevent breaking your appliances.

Sticky, sweet, sugary foods must be limited in frequency or avoided completely.

Soft drinks, sugary drinks (such as flavoured milks or cordial), and acidic drinks (like orange juice) should be restricted to occasional mealtimes.

Some foods that are very hard or chewy can be avoided or simply cut into smaller pieces to prevent breakage.

We will offer you a list of alternative food choices when your braces are fitted.

You must continue to have your teeth checked regularly by your general dentist during orthodontic treatment.

Keeping your scheduled appointments is an essential part of achieving the best results with braces. Each visit allows us to monitor your progress, make timely adjustments, and keep your treatment on track. Delaying or missing appointments can extend your overall treatment time and affect the final outcome.

Staying consistent helps ensure a smoother journey — and achieving the smile you’ll love, right on schedule.

Elastics play a big role in correcting your bite and guiding your teeth into their ideal position. Skipping or shortening wear time can slow your progress and extend treatment.

Consistency is key — the more you wear them, the faster (and more comfortably) your smile can transform.