The Why and What of Elastic Wear

During various phases of treatment, small elastics, or rubber bands, are used as a gentle but continuous force to help individual tooth movement or the aligning of one arch to the other. Elastics can be an integral aspect of orthodontic care, so if Dr. Kemp has prescribed elastics as a part of your treatment, it's important to follow his instructions fully.

If rubber bands are a part of your treatment plan, there are a few things to keep in mind. When the rubber bands are place, you won't be able to open your mouth fully, so they will have to be removed when you eat and reapplied after meal time.  Also, if you try to open your mouth too wide, your rubber bands might snap, so be careful!

Consistency is the key to successful elastic wear.  Initially, there could be some discomfort, but after a few days that disappears. If you leave your elastics off “to let my teeth feel better,” it only prolongs the ache and could actually make your treatment slow down. 

In most cases elastic wear is prescribed toward the end of treatment.  Remember, if we assign them to you, they are speeding you to the day you get your braces off and will be well worth it when you see your beautiful smile.