Plaque is the soft and sticky substance that accumulates on the teeth from food debris and bacteria. Plaque can be removed by brushing and flossing thoroughly. If plaque is not removed, it can lead to gum disease and cavities. Regular dental check ups, brushing twice a day, flossing daily and eating nutritional snacks will help to prevent plaque from forming on the teeth.

If you use a manual or battery operated tooth brush is really a personal preference. As long as you have the right technique, brushing will be just as effective with either type of brush

When your wearing braces you will receive in your pack an inter-dental brush with detachable heads.  This is a special brush used to clean in between brackets

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 When the heads get worn out you can buy replacement heads in your local chemist.

You can also buy a travel brush to take to school or work if you wish

  Tooth Brushing

 To brush your teeth properly you must:

 Brush under, above, behind and around ALL surfaces of every tooth and bracket.

 Remember to brush the inside and outside of both top and bottom gums  

Rinse your mouth very thoroughly after brushing  

Be sure to check after rinsing and if your teeth and brackets are not clean and shining.... BRUSH AGAIN!

Follow the link to interactive brushing guide

http://www.colgate.com/app/Colgate/US/OC/Information/InteractiveGuides/BrushTool.cvsp

This term refers to white marks which can form on your teeth if plaque is left to accumulate around the brackets. These marks can not be removed and will remain on your teeth for the rest of your life.

Mouth wash should be used once a day or more often if recommended. When buying mouthwash take care to ensure it contains added fluoride.  

When you have braces you floss using a thicker floss known as SUPERFLOSS. This should be used around the brackets to dislodge any particles of food. Initially using Superfloss can be time consuming but practice  will make you get much quicker

When wearing fixed braces (train-tracks) any hard foods should be cut into small pieces. You should avoid biting directly into anything that will knock brackets off e.g.. Apples

Also sticky tough foods like toffee will pull brackets from teeth. This will prolong treatment for yourself.

Sugary foods such as mints will cause decalcification.

Soft drinks, energy drinks and any juices with added sugar are your teeth enemies and should only be consumed as treats on special occasions.