Getting braces can sometimes come with gear to promote the treatment and correct jaw issues. Orthodontic elastics are rubber bands worn in the brackets to encourage the proper alignment of the jaw. You may require these bands at some point during your orthodontic treatment.
Please keep reading to learn more about it, then give us a call to schedule your free consultation for further information.
What Do Orthodontic Elastics Do?
Orthodontists provide rubber bands to orthodontic patients for several reasons, and they are multiple use depending on how they are placed on the brackets.
Patients can attach their bands onto the brackets they are instructed to use to help with several different issues.
Depending on their configuration in the mouth, orthodontic elastics can help treat crossbites, overbites, underbites, and open bites.
For example, if you have an overbite, you may place one side of the elastics to a top row bracket towards the front of the mouth and attach the other end to a bottom row bracket towards the back of your mouth on each side.
Your orthodontist will give you specific instructions on how to use them.
What Types of Bands Are Used?
Orthodontic elastics come in light, medium, and heavy. The one you use will depend on the treatment you need, and they also have different sizes that vary based on how much your orthodontist wants them to be able to stretch.
You can also have them made from different materials. For instance, you can use a synthetic band if you have a latex allergy.
How you wear them will depend entirely on how your orthodontist wants them to be used for your treatment.
How Long Will You Wear Orthodontic Elastics?
Your treatment involving the rubber bands will be determined by your orthodontist based on how your treatment is moving along. You may begin using them right away or only towards the end of your treatment. Again, this is up to your orthodontist.
Not everyone will require these bands as a part of their treatment plan.
If you are told you need to use these bands, you will be given quite a few of them in case they snap, become too loose, or you lose them. You could be asked only to wear them for a few weeks while someone else may need to wear them for several months. It all depends on how well you comply with their use and how well they work for you.
How Do I Care for My Bands?
Follow your orthodontist’s instructions very carefully. They will show you where to wear them and tell you how long you should wear them.
Do not double up on them to try to get the treatment to work faster, as this can cause pain and damage to your teeth.
Keep a pack of orthodontic elastics with you wherever you go in case the one you are wearing snaps. Try to replace them immediately if this happens.
For any further questions regarding these bands, please call our office.
Call Our WNY Orthodontists for a Free Consultation
If you have any further questions about orthodontic elastics, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our office to schedule your free consultation at any of our locations.
Like us on Facebook!
Download Our Free Orthodontics Guide
Orthodontists Associates of Western New York is proud to offer orthodontic treatment throughout Buffalo, Lancaster, Olean, Hamburg, Orchard Park, Dunkirk, East Aurora, and Niagara Falls, New York. If you are considering early orthodontic treatment for yourself or a loved one, please get in touch with one of our seven convenient orthodontic offices to arrange a free consultation.
At Orthodontists Associates of Western New York, our reputation as a leader in orthodontic care is based on one thing… Making a Healthy and Beautiful Smile
