Teal rubber bands for braces

Teal rubber bands are elastic ligature ties placed around orthodontic brackets to hold the archwire, and the color is a cosmetic choice.

Teal ties do not move teeth by themselves. The archwire supplies the force, while the small elastomeric rings secure it in each bracket and may be replaced during adjustment visits.

Choose a shade approved by the orthodontic clinic, brush around each bracket, and use interdental brushes to clear plaque beneath the wire. Avoid pulling or stretching a tie yourself because a loose ligature can let the wire shift.

Contact the orthodontic team if a tie comes off, the wire is poking, a bracket is loose, or pain does not settle after an adjustment. A swallowed tie is usually discussed with the clinic, but breathing difficulty requires emergency help.

Ask whether the planned teal tie is an elastic ligature or a different appliance, when it will be changed, and what to do if one breaks. Ask how the color may change with foods and which cleaning tools fit your brackets.