All About Elastics For Braces

Elastics commonly referred to as rubber bands are a critical part of the brace's treatment. While people often give much of the credit to the metal brackets that rest atop the teeth, elastics play an equally important role in the goal of helping you achieve the smile you want. If you have braces and your orthodontist told you that you might need to wear elastics in the future, learn more about them.

The Purpose of Elastics 

When most people think about braces, they think about tooth spacing, such as a gap. However, braces are also applied as an effective tool for correcting an overbite or underbite. For patients that have these issues, the elastics are what help bring the teeth together so that they will be better aligned.

In terms of their function, elastics essentially create pressure on the brackets that they are connected to. Over time, the pressure forces the teeth to move together, which helps to correct the underbite or overbite.

Regular Wear is Essential

If your orthodontist tells you that you need to wear elastics, it is important to understand that this is not exactly an option; it is an important part of your treatment. When you do not wear them, a few things can happen. First, you may not achieve the alignment results that you had hoped for.

Second, even if you do have success, it will take longer to achieve your dream smile, as the pressure generated by the elastics helps speed up the corrective process. Thirdly, the longer it takes for your treatment to be complete, the more it will cost you. Spending more money is never a positive. 

Correct Wear is Important

In addition to wearing the elastics regularly, you also want to wear them correctly. During your visit, the orthodontist will show you which teeth the elastics should be anchored to. You must anchor to these teeth so that they can work effectively. 

You should also always keep extra elastics with you. It is not uncommon for the elastics to break on occasion. So, when you have an extra nearby, you can replace it right away. Also, the elastic may start to stretch out and lose some of its grip throughout the day, so it is helpful to change them throughout the day.

Never hesitate to ask an orthodontist at a place like Reed & Sahlaney Orthodontics, LLP about any of the concerns you have regarding your teeth. Whether it is about elastics or any other issue, be sure to have your concerns addressed.


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