Elastics For Braces: The Ultimate Guide

+ Part 1: What are elastics for braces?
+ Part 2: My first week with braces elastics
+ Part 3: Elastics & braces FAQs
+ Part 4: Braces elastics: Practical tips for daily life
+ Part 5: Braces & elastics - everything you need to know

 With the right attitude, starting to wear braces elastics can be an exciting new development in your orthodontic journey as you push toward a beautiful, new straight smile.

But what exactly can you expect from orthodontic rubber bands?

GETTING USED TO EVERYDAY LIFE WITH ELASTICS

Let's be perfectly honest about this...

... braces elastics will feel unusual at first.

That's just logical - there's something in your mouth that wasn't there before.

But our patients tell us that within days they forget the braces rubber bands are there.

To stay consistent and see the quickest possible results, it's important to incorporate braces elastics into your daily routine - just like brushing your teeth, flossing or using interdentals.

EATING AND DRINKING WITH BRACES ELASTICS

What to do with your braces elastics before mealtimes

The simple advice is to take your elastics out before eating.

This way, food will not get trapped and your braces rubber bands will not get damaged.

The easiest way to go about this is to simply throw them away and replace them with a fresh set after each meal.

Wherever possible, brush your teeth before putting the new set in.

Following this routine helps you avoid weakened or stretched bands - keeping your treatment as efficient as possible.

Drinks and snacks with orthodontic bands

+ ✅ When you're drinking water, you can keep your bands in.

+ ❌ For any other drinks - especially sugary juices and acidic fizzy drinks - take your braces elastics out to avoid damage.

+ ❌ The same goes for all snacks.

As already mentioned, keep things simple.

For any drink except water and any food or snacks - simply throw away your existing braces elastics...

... then, wherever possible, clean your teeth - and always pop in a new set of bands.

TALKING AND SMILING WITH BRACES ELASTICS

Some patients feel that, in the first instance, rubber bands affect their speech slightly.

But, as they get used to the feel of the bands in their mouth, this starts to settle down within a couple of days.

It's almost impossible for anyone to notice you're wearing elastics.

Many patients find confidence in understanding that braces elastics are a sign your treatment is progressing well...

... and your smile is becoming straighter by the day.

TRAVEL TIPS WITH BRACES ELASTICS

Prepare a small kit to keep with you at all times so you can stay fresh and on top of your treatment.

A small mirror, a handful of spare elastics, a toothbrush and toothpaste are all you need.

Try these strategies to make sure your rubber bands very quickly become a part of your everyday life - so you can feel confident you're doing everything possible to move towards straighter teeth.

LAST WEEK IN PART 3

Part 3: Elastics & braces FAQs

COMING UP IN PART 5

Part 5: Braces & elastics - everything you need to know

FIXED BRACES AT WHITE & CO.

Find out more about fixed braces at White & Co.