What are Elastics? 

 

The brackets on your teeth are designed to straighten the teeth so that the upper and lower teeth are well aligned. The purpose of elastics are to make the top teeth and the bottom teeth fit together. Your orthodontist may have you wear the rubber bands in different shapes or hook them up to different teeth. This helps move the teeth in different directions. It is important to wear the elastics as instructed so your teeth move in the right direction.

 

What You Can Expect

 

It may take a few days to get used to putting in your elastics. But after that, you’ll probably be able to do it easily. Your orthodontist will explain which brackets you should hook your elastics onto, and this will be adjusted with time.

For the first week, your mouth may be a little sore or you may have a slight headache. Over-the-counter pain medication should help with this.

Elastics can break, and you might feel one snap in your mouth. We recommend carrying spares with you so you can replace the broken elastic with a new one.

 

When to Wear Elastics

We will let you know what we recommend for your treatment, and you will probably wear your elastics nearly 24 hours a day.

• Sleeping – Wear elastics all night.

• Eating – Some people keep elastics in while eating, but you can remove them if you prefer. Just make sure you replace them when you’re done.

• Brushing and flossing – Take elastics out when cleaning your teeth and replace them with new ones when done.

• Activities and sports – Keep elastics in unless you wear a mouthguard for sports. After removing your mouthguard, put the elastics back in.

 

Where to Get Elastics

We will provide you with your elastics. They are the specific size and weight for your treatment and the pressure needed to adjust your bite. These are not the same as the rubber bands you buy at the store, and may not be the same as another patient with braces. If you run out of elastics, please let us know right away.

 

 

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS, PLEASE CALL OUR OFFICE AT (780) 962-3414