It is important to care for your braces to ensure that the treatment period does not have to be extended. Sometimes being conscientious about caring for braces will prevent extended treatment and keep you on your intended schedule for brace removal.

First, it is important to brush four times a day - morning, noon, after dinner, and before bed. This will prevent the build-up of plaque which causes bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease. Bleeding and swollen gums are a sign that plaque has not been properly removed.

It is also very important to avoid certain types of food - such as hard candy or ice which can bend the wires, soft candies like taffy or caramel which can loosen the wires. Vegetables or fruits like apples or celery should be cut into bite size pieces before consumption. Corn should not be eaten off the cob, and do not suck lemons or limes because they will remove tooth enamel. In addition, do not use teeth to bite nails, to cut or open items, or chew pencils.