Tuesday, October 11, 2011

How do Rubber Bands Work with Braces?

Why do I need rubberbands to fix my teeth?


Rubberbands or Elastics are commonly used in combination with Braces or Invisalign to help your Orthodontist achieve the perfect bite.  Elastics provide an additional force needed to move your teeth in the right direction. Rubberbands are typically worn for several months and are to be used in an orientation specific to each patient.  They attach from one bracket to the next and will sometimes cause tenderness to the teeth at first.  There are different types of elastics with many sizes.  Our packages are labelled according to size and strength.  We have names for our elastics:  Bummer, Fred, Gloria, Roger and Cathy.   
It's important to remember to change the elastics each time you eat.  The elastics can be removed for eating and brushing and flossing.  Consistency is key...so wear them as instructed and you will be on your way to a beautiful smile in no time!