Orthodontic elastics, commonly known as rubber bands, are a part of braces treatment. They are small, stretchy bands made from medical-grade materials that connect to the brackets. Elastics apply targeted, continuous pressure to move the teeth and jaw into their correct positions. Understanding their function and timeline helps patients prepare for this phase of their orthodontic journey.
Why Elastics Are Essential for Bite Correction
Elastics perform a different job than brackets and archwires alone. While the archwire system straightens and levels individual teeth, elastics correct the relationship between the upper and lower jaws. They apply an inter-arch force necessary for achieving a proper bite, also known as occlusion.
Elastics are placed on small hooks attached to the braces, often spanning from an upper tooth bracket to a lower tooth bracket. This guides the dental arch forward or backward for bite alignment. For example, an overbite (Class II malocclusion) requires elastics to pull the upper teeth backward and the lower teeth forward. An underbite (Class III malocclusion) uses elastics to pull the lower teeth back and the upper teeth forward. They also close gaps, correct crossbites, and address issues requiring diagonal or vertical force.
When Orthodontists Introduce Elastics
Elastics are introduced during the intermediate or finishing phase, not at the beginning of treatment. The initial stage focuses on aligning individual teeth and leveling the arches using archwires. This foundational work ensures the teeth are straight and ready to be moved as a unit when bite correction begins.
The precise timing is individualized and depends on the patient’s needs and the severity of their bite issue. Patients often start wearing elastics after several weeks or months, once major crowding and leveling are complete. This occurs when the orthodontist transitions to stiffer, final archwires that can withstand the additional force. The goal is to first align the teeth, then use elastics to fine-tune the jaw relationship and finalize the bite.
Practical Guide to Wearing and Caring for Bands
Successful bite correction with elastics relies heavily on patient compliance and consistent wear. Orthodontists instruct patients to wear elastics full-time (20 to 24 hours per day), removing them only for brushing and sometimes for eating. Consistent force is paramount; wearing bands inconsistently can cause unwanted tooth movement and extend treatment time.
Elastics must be changed multiple times daily because they rapidly lose elasticity and force. It is recommended to replace them at least two to four times daily, such as after every meal and before bed. A fresh band ensures consistent pressure is applied to stimulate bone remodeling and tooth movement. Initial soreness is common as the teeth and jaw adjust, but this discomfort subsides after the first few days of continuous wear.
Orthodontists select elastics based on their diameter and the amount of force they exert (light, medium, or heavy). Patients must follow specific instructions regarding the pattern of wear, as incorrect application can move teeth in the wrong direction. Always have extra packs of elastics on hand, as any lapse in wear compromises progress and lengthens treatment.