Braces rubber bands and elastics
When do you get rubber bands for braces?
It depends on your treatment plan. Healthline says some people start after a few adjustments and others near the end. The AAO says elastics are used once braces or aligners are in place and the orthodontist needs extra force, and do not name a stage. Wear them exactly as prescribed, and call your orthodontist if you lose them.
When do you get rubber bands for braces?
Healthline says the start depends on the treatment plan: some people begin after a few adjustments, while others start nearer the end. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) says elastics are typically used when you already have braces or aligners in place and your orthodontist needs extra pressure to move teeth, and does not specify a particular phase. So the honest answer is that your orthodontist decides, and it may be early, middle or late.
Why do orthodontists use rubber bands?
The AAO says elastics add force to specific teeth beyond what braces or aligners apply alone, and help correct bite issues and misalignments by guiding teeth toward their planned positions. Healthline says they are often used to correct an overbite, underbite, open bite or crossbite, or to adjust tooth spacing and position. Our guides on what rubber bands do and how they work explain the mechanics.
How do the rubber bands attach?
The AAO says they attach to hooks on selected upper and lower brackets and can connect the upper and lower jaws or teeth within the same jaw. Your orthodontist will show you which hooks to use and how, and the pattern can change at each visit.
How long do you wear rubber bands?
Healthline says use can last a few weeks or several months, many people wear them nearly all the time and some only overnight. The AAO says to wear them as your orthodontist prescribes and not to wear more than prescribed, and gives no daily hours. Remove them for eating and brushing and put on fresh ones afterwards.
How often do you change them?
The AAO says to replace them daily or as often as your orthodontist recommends, since they lose elasticity with age, and that they are single-use so do not rinse or reuse them. Healthline says they need changing often, sometimes several times a day. The two give slightly different figures, so follow your orthodontist.
What happens if you do not wear them?
The AAO does not spell out the consequences in detail, but says consistent wear is key to moving teeth efficiently and keeping treatment on schedule, which implies that skipping wear can slow progress. If you are struggling to wear them, tell your orthodontist rather than skipping quietly, because they can change the plan.
What if you lose them?
The AAO says to contact your orthodontist right away rather than waiting for your next appointment. Keep spares in a bag or case, which is general advice and flagged.
Do rubber bands hurt?
Healthline says some temporary discomfort is common when starting, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help. Neither source gives how long it lasts. Contact your orthodontist about pain that is more than mild.
What do braces with rubber bands cost?
The sources we read do not give prices and neither does this page. Elastics are usually part of the overall treatment fee, which is general knowledge and flagged, so ask whether replacement elastics are included in the quote.
Can you eat with rubber bands in?
The AAO says to remove elastics for eating and brushing and to put fresh ones on afterwards, so you do not eat with them in. Taking them out and replacing them several times a day is part of the routine, which is why spares matter. Healthline does not address eating. If an elastic snaps in the middle of the day, replace it as soon as you can, since time without the force slows progress, which is general reasoning and flagged. Our braces guides explain what foods to avoid with brackets and wires.
What do elastics feel like?
Healthline says some temporary discomfort is common when starting, and neither source describes the feel in detail. Expect a steady pull on the teeth rather than a sharp pain, which is general experience and flagged. Soft foods in the first days and over-the-counter pain relief as advised can help, and your orthodontist can say whether the discomfort you describe is normal.
Questions to ask your orthodontist
Take these to your adjustment visit.
- Why do I need elastics, and when will I start?
- How many hours a day should I wear them?
- How often should I change them?
- What do I do if I run out?
- How long will I need them?
Planning for the cost?
Ask whether elastics and replacements are included in the quote. See what braces cost and what a quote should include.
Frequently asked questions
When do you get rubber bands for braces?
It depends on your plan. Some start after a few adjustments; others near the end.
Why do I need rubber bands?
To add force that corrects bite issues and moves teeth.
How long do I wear rubber bands?
A few weeks to several months, as your orthodontist prescribes.
How often do I change them?
Daily or more often, as your orthodontist recommends.
What if I lose my rubber bands?
Call your orthodontist right away.
Do rubber bands hurt?
Mild discomfort is common at first.
Sources
General education only. Where sources give different timings, this guide shows the range and tells you to follow your own clinician.
- American Association of Orthodontists: orthodontic elastics (modified April 15, 2026) (checked October 21, 2026)
- Healthline: braces rubber bands (reviewed by a dentist, February 5, 2021) (checked October 21, 2026)
This guide provides general information only and is not a substitute for professional medical or dental advice. If you have a concern about your health, please consult your nearest doctor or dentist.