Orthodontic elastics, commonly called rubber bands, are small, stretchy loops that apply force between the upper and lower jaws or between teeth within the same arch. Made from medical-grade latex or a latex-free material, these bands correct alignment and bite issues like overbites, underbites, and crossbites. While braces straighten teeth, elastics provide the directed force necessary to correct the bite and jaw relationship. Consistent use of these elastics is the most important factor controlled by the patient that dictates the speed of orthodontic treatment.
How Elastics Accelerate Treatment
The process of moving teeth relies on the biological mechanism of bone remodeling, activated by sustained pressure. When an elastic applies a gentle, continuous force, it creates compression and tension on the surrounding periodontal ligament (PDL). Specialized cells called osteoclasts break down bone on the compressed side, while osteoblasts build new bone on the tension side, allowing the tooth to gradually move through the jawbone.
This movement requires a force that is light but constant to maintain the remodeling process. Orthodontic elastics deliver this specific force vector to guide the bite into its correct position. Any significant interruption, such as removing the elastics for several hours, allows the teeth to drift back toward their original positions. Inconsistent wear, such as only during the night, turns treatment into a cyclical, start-and-stop process that significantly slows the overall rate of movement.
Achieving 24-Hour Compliance
Most orthodontists prescribe wearing elastics for 20 to 24 hours per day, removing them only for eating and brushing. Maintaining this near-constant wear is necessary for success. One practical strategy is to integrate the elastic change into established daily routines, such as replacing the bands after every meal and following morning and evening brushing.
To overcome forgetfulness, setting routine reminders on a smartphone or using a dedicated compliance app can be helpful. Patients should carry extra packages of elastics at all times, ensuring immediate replacement if a band breaks or is lost. An effective technique to reduce initial discomfort is to persevere through the first few days of soreness, as the mouth quickly adapts to the new pressure.
Visual aids can simplify the process; patients can ask their orthodontist to draw the specific placement pattern on the elastic package for quick reference. For patients who snack frequently, some orthodontists advise eating with the elastics in, as slight stretching is better than having no force applied at all.
Critical Do’s and Don’ts of Elastic Usage
The effectiveness of elastics depends on the quality of the force they exert. The primary “do” is to change the elastics frequently, typically three to four times a day, or as directed by the orthodontist. Elastics quickly lose their elasticity and strength after several hours, meaning an old band will not provide the calculated force necessary for movement.
A major “don’t” is never to “double up” or wear more elastics than prescribed to speed up the process. Applying excessive force is counterproductive and harmful. Too much force can pinch off the blood supply to the periodontal ligament, causing cell death and a condition called hyalinization, which actually slows movement.
Excessive force also risks damaging the tooth roots or causing bone loss, compromising the long-term health of the teeth. Always ensure the elastics are hooked onto the designated brackets or anchors in the exact pattern prescribed by the orthodontist to apply the force correctly.
Supporting Factors for Quick Tooth Movement
Achieving a faster treatment outcome requires more than just elastic compliance; it depends on the health of the surrounding oral tissues. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is fundamental because healthy gums and bone are necessary for the remodeling process to occur safely and efficiently. Inflammation caused by poor hygiene, such as gingivitis, can impede the necessary bone changes and slow tooth movement.
Careful adherence to dietary restrictions is also important, as avoiding hard or sticky foods prevents damage to the appliance. A broken bracket, hook, or wire immediately halts elastic wear and requires an emergency appointment to fix, which creates an unnecessary delay in treatment.
Keeping all scheduled orthodontic appointments is non-negotiable for maintaining momentum. These visits allow the orthodontist to monitor the progress of the bite correction, adjust the tension of the elastics, and move the treatment to the next phase promptly. Consistent appointments ensure that the mechanics are working optimally and that the patient is continually moving toward the goal of removing their braces.