Orthodontic elastics, commonly known as rubber bands, are a temporary but powerful component of braces treatment. They apply precise, directional force to the teeth and jaw to correct bite alignment issues such as overbites, underbites, or crossbites. These small bands connect to hooks on the upper and lower braces, creating the tension needed to shift the jaw into its optimal position. Elastics must be worn nearly full-time, and the standard protocol is to remove them before consuming food.
The Standard Protocol: Removing Elastics for Meals
Orthodontists instruct patients to remove their rubber bands for all major meals and substantial snacks. Chewing places significant mechanical stress on the elastics, causing them to stretch, weaken, or potentially snap. If the bands lose their intended tension, they stop applying the required force, which can slow down the overall treatment progress. Consistent removal and replacement ensures the therapeutic force remains constant, which is necessary for effective tooth movement.
After carefully removing the elastics, store them in a safe, clean place, such as a small case or plastic bag, rather than simply wrapping them in a napkin. This prevents them from being accidentally thrown away and keeps them sanitary until they are needed again. Following the meal, patients should brush their teeth and braces thoroughly to remove any food debris trapped in the hardware. The final step is to immediately replace the old elastics with a fresh pair to maintain the prescribed 20 to 22 hours of daily wear.
Food Types That Cause Damage
Even when elastics are removed, certain food textures pose a significant risk to the entire orthodontic structure, including the wires, brackets, and the small hooks where elastics attach. Sticky foods, such as caramels or toffee, can cling to the brackets and wires, potentially pulling the brackets right off the tooth surface. Chewy items, including bagels and beef jerky, require intense, sustained biting force that can bend or distort the archwire, which guides tooth movement.
Hard and crunchy foods, like nuts, ice, and hard candies, create sharp, concentrated forces that risk fracturing the brackets or breaking the elastic hooks. Damage to the hooks prevents the elastics from being worn correctly, halting the bite correction process. Highly acidic foods, such as citrus and sodas, can also weaken the cement used to bond the brackets to the teeth over time. Avoiding these food types helps keep the appliance intact and ensures that the elastic therapy can continue without interruption.
Accidental Ingestion and Broken Elastics
It is a common concern that an elastic may snap and be accidentally swallowed while eating or speaking. Orthodontic elastics are made from medical-grade, non-toxic materials, such as latex or synthetic alternatives, and are designed to be safe if swallowed. A swallowed elastic will typically pass through the digestive system naturally, often within one to three days, without causing any harm. If a patient experiences any pain or unusual discomfort, they should consult a medical professional.
If a rubber band breaks or snaps off, immediately replace it with a new one from the fresh supply provided by the orthodontist. Consistent tension is required for effective treatment, so a broken or missing band must be addressed promptly. If the patient runs out of replacement elastics or if a component like an elastic hook or bracket is broken, contact the orthodontic office as soon as possible to schedule a repair or pick up more supplies.