How Do Elastics (Rubber Bands) Help My Smile?

Wearing orthodontic braces may be the best choice for correcting your teeth and improving your smile, and that’s why you’ve come to Crossley Orthodontics.

Braces, which consist of brackets and wires, work by gently applying pressure to the teeth, and that pressure causes them to move into the correct position. In some cases elastics, or rubber bands, are added to apply additional pressure needed to move your teeth.

The Reason For Elastics

Customized for each patient, elastics typically stretch over tiny loops on the top and bottom brackets. If worn consistently, and every day, these tiny elastics will help to guide your teeth into the correct placement.

These elastics are crafted from medical-grade latex, which is safe to be in contact with your mouth. It’s common to remove the elastics during meals if opening your mouth wide enough to eat is difficult. Our staff will demonstrate how to place your rubber bands so you will be comfortable doing it yourself.

Helpful Hints

DO – Get in the habit of carrying around extra rubber bands and replace them as soon as one breaks. By consistently wearing the elastics, you may shorten your time in braces.

DON’T – Double up on elastics as this will cause too much pressure on the tooth or teeth and can actually harm the root of the tooth.

DO – Wash your hands before removing or replacing the rubber bands.

DON’T – Overstretch the rubber band or it will lose its strength and it will be ineffective.

DO – Call us if you run out of rubber bands.

DO – Have fun with your braces and elastics. There are many different colors available that can let you show off your soon-to-be perfect smile.

If you have any questions for us, we would love to help you! Call Crossley Orthodontics at (214) 556-6868.