Why are wearing orthodontic elastics (rubber bands) important?
December 31st, 2007 posted by admin
Braces alone (brackets and wires) can align and level your teeth to the adjacent teeth (upper teeth with upper teeth and lowers with lowers). But if your bite is off (upper teeth do not fit well with the lower teeth) we will often rely on the use of elastics to help correct the bite.
Elastics are most often used during the 2nd half or toward the end of your ortho treatment. Depending on the particular bite problem you have, elastics are worn for as little as a few weeks to over a year. Most must wear them for several months.
Poor elastic cooperation (not wearing them enough every day) will usually lead to extending your treatment time in braces. In some cases of poor cooperation, in order to achieve an acceptable bite, Dr. Mike may recommend the need to extract teeth or the use of an additional appliance (like a Forsus Corrector Spring).
Elastics come in different sizes and strengths. It is important to follow instructions and wear them as directed. Wearing too strong or too weak an elastic or in the wrong direction, can slow down your treatment and extend your time in braces.
If your teeth are sore from your elastics, don’t take them off. By not wearing them all the time, you are only rocking the teeth back and forth, making them very sore and the bite will not improve. If for any reason you cannot wear your elastics (lost, ran out, hurts too much, etc…) call us immediately. Elastics are often the last step in your treatment and continuous wear is crucial to achieve a great smile and a healthy bite.
