Orthodontic elastics, or rubber bands, are a common part of braces treatment. These small, stretchy bands are made from medical-grade latex or non-latex materials. They work with braces to achieve specific tooth movements and bite adjustments.
Purpose of Orthodontic Elastics
While braces straighten individual teeth, elastics apply continuous, gentle force to move larger groups of teeth or entire dental arches. This targeted pressure guides teeth and jaws into their correct positions, complementing the work of the braces.
Elastics are useful for correcting malocclusions, which are misalignments of the upper and lower teeth when the mouth is closed. These include overbites (upper front teeth protrude excessively), underbites (lower teeth sit in front of upper teeth), crossbites (upper teeth bite inside lower teeth), and open bites (a persistent gap between upper and lower teeth). Braces alone may not fully correct these complex bite discrepancies, making elastics a component of treatment.
Understanding Elastic Placement
The orthodontist determines the specific placement of orthodontic elastics for each patient. Elastics typically attach to small hooks, buttons, or brackets on both the upper and lower braces. This positioning allows them to exert force in precise directions, guiding the teeth and jaws.
Class II elastics are a common configuration used to correct overbites. These bands usually stretch from a hook on an upper canine or front tooth to a hook on a lower molar. This arrangement moves the upper teeth backward and the lower teeth forward.
Conversely, Class III elastics address underbites. These elastics typically run from a hook on a lower canine or front tooth to a hook on an upper molar. Their function is to pull the lower teeth backward while encouraging the upper teeth to move forward.
Crossbite elastics correct crossbites. These bands may span from the inside of an upper tooth to the outside of a lower tooth, or vice versa, to widen or narrow the dental arches. Vertical elastics close open bites by linking upper and lower teeth vertically, bringing them into proper contact.
Daily Wear and Care Instructions
Consistent wear and proper hygiene are essential for orthodontic elastics. Patients are instructed to wear elastics for approximately 22 to 23 hours per day. They should only be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing.
Change elastics frequently, often multiple times a day, to maintain their elasticity and consistent force. Old elastics lose strength, becoming less effective at moving teeth. When applying new elastics, using a mirror can help ensure accurate placement on the designated hooks or brackets.
If an elastic breaks or you run out, contact the orthodontist’s office promptly. Waiting until the next scheduled appointment can delay progress, as continuous force is necessary for effective tooth movement. Orthodontists often provide extra elastics to ensure a sufficient supply.
Importance of Following Orthodontist’s Guidelines
The success of orthodontic treatment with elastics depends on following your orthodontist’s guidelines. The orthodontist’s instructions regarding elastic wear are tailored to an individual’s specific needs and bite correction goals.
Inconsistent wear of elastics can prolong overall treatment time. If elastics are not worn as prescribed, the desired tooth movement may not occur, potentially leading to suboptimal results or requiring alternative interventions.