Orthodontic elastics, commonly known as rubber bands, are used to achieve proper alignment during braces treatment. These loops of latex or synthetic material provide the necessary directional force that the brackets and archwires alone cannot deliver. Their purpose is to correct the relationship between the upper and lower jaws, addressing malocclusions like overbites, underbites, or crossbites. The precise pattern and force of the elastics are customized by the orthodontist for each patient’s unique bite correction needs.
The Essential Replacement Schedule
The most common guideline for changing orthodontic elastics is to replace them three to four times per day. This schedule typically aligns with daily activities: after breakfast, lunch, dinner, and before going to bed. This routine ensures a fresh, consistent application of the gentle force required for effective tooth movement.
The specific instructions provided by your orthodontist must always take precedence over general advice. The orthodontist determines the required wear pattern and frequency based on the complexity of your bite issue. It is recommended that elastics be worn as close to 24 hours a day as possible, only being removed for brushing, flossing, or when specifically instructed otherwise.
Why Elastics Lose Their Effectiveness
Frequent replacement stems from two primary factors: the rapid degradation of the elastic material and oral hygiene requirements. The material is engineered to provide a specific, gentle amount of force, but this force begins to diminish almost immediately once stretched and placed in the mouth.
Orthodontic elastics can lose a significant portion of their initial force within the first four to five hours of wear. This force decay is caused by mechanical stretching and the oral environment, including saliva, pH changes, and temperature fluctuations. Wearing an elastic for too long means the resulting weak force is insufficient to move the teeth effectively, slowing treatment progress. Furthermore, elastics collect bacteria and saliva residue throughout the day, making frequent disposal and replacement necessary for maintaining good oral hygiene.
Daily Handling and Troubleshooting
Successful orthodontic treatment relies heavily on the consistent and correct management of your elastics throughout the day. Unless advised otherwise, remove elastics before eating any meal, and before brushing and flossing your teeth. After completing your oral hygiene routine, immediately put in a fresh pair of elastics to minimize the time teeth are without active force.
If an elastic snaps or breaks unexpectedly, replace it with a new one right away to maintain the continuous pressure needed for tooth movement. It is important to always carry a small supply of fresh elastics with you for immediate replacement. If you run out, contact your orthodontist’s office immediately to arrange for more, since even a short delay in wear can allow teeth to relapse, undoing days of progress.
For storage, keep unused elastics in a clean, dry place, away from direct heat or sunlight, as excessive warmth can degrade the material and reduce its elasticity. Inconsistent wear or the reuse of old bands is the most common reason for extended treatment time. Failing to wear them as prescribed can cause teeth to shift back toward their original positions, which prolongs the overall time spent in braces.