Caring for Dental Braces: Health Tip

From crooked to crowded teeth, children need braces for a variety of reasons, says KidsHealth. Because it's so easy for food to get stuck in braces, children need to take extra steps to keep their teeth clean.

To care for braces, KidsHealth encourages:

• Brushing after meals and flossing daily.
• Scheduling regular dental cleanings and checkups.
• Avoiding foods like popcorn, sticky candy and gum.
• Eating soft foods.
• Taking pain relievers if the braces feel uncomfortable.

If a child has a loose wire or bracket, KidsHealth urges parents to see the orthodontist without delay.