Orthodontic elastic bands, often called elastics, are a fundamental component of braces treatment. These small, medical-grade rubber loops generate a precise, continuous force between the upper and lower jaws. Their primary purpose is to correct bite alignment issues, such as overbites, underbites, and crossbites, by guiding the teeth and jaws into their optimal positions. This consistent, controlled force stimulates the necessary biological change to facilitate long-term tooth movement.
Why Elasticity Fails After One Use
Orthodontic elastics cannot be reused due to the mechanical properties of the material and the harsh environment of the mouth. These bands are engineered to deliver a specific, calibrated force when initially stretched. However, the moment they are placed, they begin to lose their tensile strength and elasticity, a process known as force degradation.
The warm, moist environment of the mouth, which includes saliva and temperature changes, rapidly accelerates this loss of strength. Studies show that most orthodontic elastics can lose between 10% and 40% of their intended force within the first 24 hours of wear.
Reusing a stretched elastic results in an insufficient or inconsistent force being applied to the teeth. This disruption can halt or reverse the carefully planned orthodontic progress, extending the overall treatment time and compromising the final result.
Oral Health Risks of Reusing Bands
Reusing elastics poses tangible risks to oral hygiene and safety. Once an elastic is removed, its surface is contaminated with oral bacteria, plaque, and microscopic food debris. Reintroducing this contaminated band back onto the braces appliance re-inoculates the mouth with a higher concentration of microorganisms.
This practice significantly increases the risk of bacterial buildup around the brackets and under the gumline, which can lead to localized gum irritation and gingivitis. The constant presence of a dirty elastic can also contribute to bad breath. Furthermore, material fatigue weakens the band’s structural integrity, increasing the likelihood of the elastic snapping mid-use.
Guidelines for Proper Daily Use
A strict replacement schedule is necessary to ensure consistent and efficient tooth movement, as reusing elastics is counterproductive and unhygienic. The standard recommendation is to change elastics at least twice daily, such as once in the morning and again before going to bed, or as often as directed by the orthodontist. Fresh elastics must also be applied immediately after eating and after performing routine oral hygiene.
This frequent replacement ensures teeth are constantly subjected to the optimal force level needed to guide them into position. It is imperative to use only the specific size and weight of elastics provided by the orthodontic office, as they are medically graded and tailored to the individual treatment plan.
Patients should never substitute orthodontic elastics with household items like hair ties or craft rubber bands. These non-medical items are not calibrated for safe dental use and can apply excessive, damaging force or contain unsafe materials. If a patient runs out of prescribed elastics, the proper action is to contact the orthodontist’s office for a resupply.