Brushing and flossing your teeth properly is important with or without braces.  With braces, home hygiene care becomes so much more important so as to prevent cavities and hypocalcifications (white spots) from forming by the time appliances are removed.  A soft-bristled tooth brush and 2 full minutes per comprehensive brushing is what is necessary after every meal or snack.  After appliances are placed we will go over home care and brushing in detail to be certain that patients and parents are equipped to care for their mouths properly during the course of treatment.