- Use a soft toothbrush: It's essential to clean the area between your brackets and gums. Choose a soft-bristled brush to avoid irritation and angle it toward the gums to clean effectively.

- Brush after every meal: Braces can trap food debris, so frequent brushing helps prevent plaque. Carry a travel toothbrush, or rinse with water for 30 seconds if one isn't available. After eating acidic foods, wait 30 minutes to an hour before brushing to protect your enamel.

- Brush for two minutes: Spend 30 seconds on each quadrant of your mouth (upper right, lower right, upper left, lower left), cleaning both outer and inner surfaces. Use a timer to ensure you brush for the full two minutes.

- Floss with a threader or waterpik: Flossing can be challenging with braces. Use a floss threader or a waterpik to clean between wires and remove plaque effectively.

- Use mouthwash at night: Choose an anti-cavity, fluoride mouthwash to reduce tooth decay and protect enamel. Rinse for one minute, then check for any missed areas in the mirror.