Orthodontic Elastics FAQs
Orthodontic elastics can be a bothersome part of your journey to a straighter smile. While many people don’t like orthodontic elastics, they are an important part of getting you the smile you’ve always dreamed about. Let’s drive into the FAQs about elastics, since many patients ask “do I have to wear orthodontic elastics?”
Orthodontic Elastics Are Important to Your Orthodontic Treatment
Rubber bands are used on patients who need treated for an overbite or an underbite or who need their teeth moved in a way that braces won’t allow. The road to a better smile is different for every patient. Since each patient faces their own unique orthodontic issues, orthodontists often have to use different methods to achieve the right results.
Since each patient undergoes different treatment, orthodontic elastics are customized to meet the needs of that specific treatment. While rubber bands might not be your favorite part of your treatment plan, they are a necessary part of your treatment. They need to be worn right so that your teeth move in the right direction to improve your smile.
How Should I Wear Elastic Bands?
As mentioned earlier, orthodontic elastics need to be worn the right way to be effective. Here are some tips on how you should wear your rubber bands:
- Wear as your orthodontist directs. Rubber bands should only be taken off when you eat, brush your teeth, or as instructed by your orthodontist.
- Carry extra elastics with you in the event one breaks. It will allow you to easily replace the bands without causing you to have to mess up your treatment.
- Orthodontic elastics should be switched out once or twice a day. As the day goes on, they lose their elasticity and need to be replaced to work effectively.
- Don’t double up on your elastics. Some patients think it will speed up the process but it can actually put too much pressure on the teeth and result in an increase in the time needed to complete your journey.
- Be consistent. The better you are at wearing your orthodontic elastics as your doctor advises, the more you will be on track to the smile you want to achieve.
Every smile is unique. If your orthodontist has advised you use orthodontic elastics, then they have determined they are a necessary part of your successful treatment. If rubber bands are a necessary part of your orthodontic treatment, it is important that you wear them exactly as your orthodontist advises. Think of it this way. They may be bothersome now, but wearing them will be worth it when you look in the mirror and see the smile you’ve always wanted!