How to Clean Rubber Bands on Braces

While it is important to change the rubber bands securing your braces daily or after every time you eat, cleaning them may be necessary for in-between times or when you're out of rubber bands and have yet to pick up new ones from your orthodontist. In these situations, cleaning them is simple and will help you to ensure a thoroughly clean mouth.

Things You'll Need

• 2 tbsp. salt
• 1/4 cup warm water
• Small dish

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Instructions

• 1

  Mix 2 tbsp. salt with 1/4 cup warm water in a small dish.

• 2

  Remove the bands securing your braces from your mouth and place them in the saltwater.

• 3

  Soak the rubber bands in the saltwater for five minutes.

• 4

  Gently brush your teeth or use a mouthwash while the rubber bands are soaking. It does no good to put clean rubber bands back into a dirty mouth.

• 5

  Rub the rubber bands between your fingers while they're still in the saltwater to remove any small particles.

• 6

  Rinse the rubber bands with cool, clear water.

• 7

  Put the rubber bands back in your mouth to secure your braces.