What can I do to manage my malocclusion?

During orthodontic treatment for malocclusion, it's still important to take good care of teeth at home.

Your orthodontist will give you instructions on caring for your teeth during treatment. These may include:

• Avoiding sticky and hard foods, such as gum, taffy and nuts.
• Taking vitamins with fluoride.
• Using a retainer, a piece of molded plastic and wire (orthodontic appliance) worn in the mouth to hold the teeth in place after orthodontic treatment, as often and as long as recommended.
• Carefully brush your teeth after meals and snacks.

If your child has crooked or protruding teeth from an oral habit such as thumb-sucking, his or her teeth may begin to return to normal position when the habit stops. You can help your child stop an oral habit.