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

 Rubber bands for braces are a crucial part of many orthodontic treatment plans.

But when they're introduced part way through a treatment plan it can come as a surprise to the patient.

Here are the most common questions patients ask about orthodontic elastics.

WHAT ARE ELASTICS FOR BRACES?

Orthodontic braces apply slow but steady pressure to very gradually guide teeth into their final straight position.

For some patients, orthodontists employ elastics to bring additional force where necessary.

How exactly do elastics work?

Elastics help to give the patient a healthier bite and a straighter smile by guiding the upper and lower arches towards improved alignment.

They're most commonly used to correct crossbites, underbites and overbites.

WILL I NEED TO WEAR ELASTICS WITH MY BRACES

Some orthodontic patients need elastics. Others do not.

When needed, they're typically introduced months into treatment - once your teeth have started moving towards their straight position.

Are elastics for adults or teenagers?

Rubber bands are very commonly used in teenagers' cases.

However, they're often used for adults - particular in cases in which the patient's bite needs extra correction.

Elastics are every bit as effective for adults as they are for children.

As with orthodontics and teeth straightening in general, age is no barrier to achieving your perfect smile.

TIMESCALES FOR ORTHODONTIC ELASTICS

How long will I need to wear rubber bands?

This varies from patient to patient.

Some patients will need elastics for a few months.

Others will need them for a more substantial chunk of their overall treatment time.

Do I need to wear elastic bands all the time?

Orthodontists advise you to wear them for as much of the day as possible.

They will ask you to remove them for meals and for brushing your teeth.

Otherwise, keep them in place.

You'll soon get used to wearing them so you'll find it easy to follow this advice.

DO ELASTICS FOR BRACES HURT?

As with most dental treatments - and different aspects of treatments - rubber bands can take some getting used to in the early stages.

Many patients observe pressure or tightness at first.

Painkillers and orthodontic wax can help.

Any discomfort usually fades within days.

CAN I SKIP A COUPLE OF DAYS HERE AND THERE?

We strongly advise against this.

Skipping just a couple of days can slow your progress and extend the overall treatment time.

Stay strong, stay consistent and understand you'll get used to wearing rubber bands in no time at all.

HOW DO I CARE FOR MY RUBBER BANDS?

Change you're elastics at least twice a day.

Your orthodontist will give you specific instructions.

Remember, orthodontic rubber bands lose their elasticity relatively quickly so stay on top of making regular changes.

And if an elastic breaks, replace it immediately.

For this reason, always carry some spares with you when you're out and about.

LAST WEEK IN PART 2

Part 2: My first week with braces elastics

COMING UP IN PART 4

Part 4: Braces elastics: Practical tips for daily life

FIXED BRACES AT WHITE & CO.

Find out more about fixed braces at White & Co.