Orthodontic appliance and Holy Communion

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ColorMomma

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My 13 year son asked me if there is a special procedure to cleanse/discard his orthodontic appliance once he’s finished with it. He asked knowing that it has come in contact with the Eucharist. I have no idea what to say. I don’t know if our orthodontist is even Catholic but we did find him through a Catholic school auction. Anyone else out there have an answer? Thanks!
 
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Looking over the USCCB norms, I find no teaching I am aware of that discusses this. There was an older topic on this on the forums but these were opinions, like my own.

My understanding is that, once the Host is consumed, the supernatural effects are completed. Anything left after should be cleaned in a normal way. If your son finds there are larger pieces of the Host stuck in his orthodontics, suggest that he’d chew it a bit while also mixing it with his saliva to help soften and break it down.

I would not get too worried about this. The Lord is both spiritual and nutritional food, so the accidents (the appearance of bread) will require cleansing as any food. I wouldn’t see it at all as “God is stuck in your braces.” 🙂 God bless.
 
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I’m quite impressed your 13 yo thought of this himself. What a special kid 🙂
 
Thank you! He is young, but has always had a strong sense of God. He has a long time to think about it, but he is listening to see if called to the priesthood.
 
Not to over think it, but he might be able to minimize the amount that gets stuck if he doesn’t chew unless necessary. Rather, let it soften on the tongue, and then swallow when able.
 
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