Orthodontic elastics, often called rubber bands, are a common part of orthodontic treatment. These small, stretchy bands work with braces to achieve specific tooth movements and bite corrections. They guide teeth into proper alignment and ensure a stable, functional bite.
The Purpose of Orthodontic Elastics
Orthodontic elastics are prescribed to apply targeted pressure that braces alone cannot generate. They are designed to move teeth and jaws in specific directions. These bands connect to hooks on brackets, strategically placed by an orthodontist to create tension and guide movement.
Elastics are particularly useful for addressing issues where the upper and lower teeth do not meet correctly. This includes overbites, where the upper teeth extend too far over the lower teeth, and underbites, where the lower teeth protrude past the upper teeth. They also help in correcting crossbites, where upper teeth bite inside lower teeth, and open bites, where front teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed. By applying continuous force, elastics facilitate inter-arch movements, which are movements between the upper and lower arches of teeth, leading to a balanced and functional bite.
Immediate Effects of Inconsistent Wear
Inconsistent wear of orthodontic elastics can immediately hinder treatment progress. Without the continuous force they provide, teeth may stop moving as planned, or even begin to shift back toward their original positions. This lack of consistent pressure means the necessary adjustments to the bite do not occur.
When wear is sporadic, patients may experience increased discomfort each time they resume wearing the elastics. This happens because the teeth are being forced to move again from a position they have either settled into or regressed from, rather than maintaining steady progress. The bite may not improve, and in some cases, it could worsen.
Cumulative Impact on Treatment Progress
Not wearing orthodontic elastics consistently has consequences for the treatment journey. Non-compliance is a primary reason for extended orthodontic treatment time, often adding months to the overall duration of wearing braces. This prolongation means more time spent in orthodontic appliances and an increase in the number of required appointments.
The extended treatment duration can also lead to higher overall costs, due to additional appointments and prolonged use of resources. Beyond time and cost, a significant risk is a compromised final result. The bite may not be fully corrected, increasing the likelihood of relapse, where teeth shift back to their original misaligned positions after braces are removed. Severe uncorrected bite issues may necessitate more complex interventions in the future.