Getting braces is something that many people dread. In addition to the discomfort, the limitations on what you can eat and drink, and the painful cuts they can cause, people with braces have to be careful to keep the brackets clean. Failure to do so can result in unsightly staining on the teeth. If you have braces, the good news is that keeping the brackets clean is not nearly as hard as you may think. Here are some of the best practices to follow in order to keep your braces clean. Get the Best Toothbrush One thing that many people do not seem to realize is that not all toothbrushes are created equal. When you have braces, you need a toothbrush that can reach into crevices and nooks. For this reason, the traditional toothbrush with uniform bristles all pointing in the same direction simply won’t get the job done. Choose a toothbrush with bristles slanted at multiple angles and modify your brushing technique to be sure that you’re getting the bristles into the spaces between and around the brackets. Avoid Certain Foods and Drinks Because it is going to be tougher for you to keep things clean, you need to do your part by watching your diet. Avoid foods and drinks that will easily stain your teeth such as coffee, wine, tea, and certain types of berries. In addition, if you smoke, this would be a good time to think about quitting. Be Prepared Although most people should brush their teeth twice a day, if you have braces you really should brush after every meal. You want to remove the food that is lodged around the brackets before it has a chance to start staining your teeth. Even if you don’t have a toothbrush, you can still do something. Go to the water fountain and vigorously swish water around. Doing so will help keep your teeth looking their best.