Elastics, also known as rubber bands, are used to exert a gentle, continuous force for aligning the teeth and/or bite.

Elastic Placement

A dental assistant will help you practice placing your elastics on the brackets in the manner the doctor has prescribed for you. If you ever forget where to place them, call our office for clarification. The teeth will move into their proper positions when elastics are worn consistently and as directed. Not wearing your elastics for even one day after wearing them for a week could result in them shifting back into their original positions.

Elastic Wear

Wear your elastics as prescribed; this is usually 24 hours a day, every day. They will work only when worn constantly. You may take them out while brushing and eating, but place them back immediately afterwards. Change your rubber bands at least a couple times every day because they will start to lose their elasticity. Failure to wear your rubber bands, as instructed, will result in treatment running longer than expected. It may also affect the finished orthodontic treatment result.

Loose Brackets

If a bracket holding the elastic comes loose, call the office immediately so we may repair it as soon as possible.

Discomfort

When you begin wearing your elastics you may experience some discomfort. This discomfort will disappear as you continue to wear them. Tylenol or Advil can be taken to alleviate any discomfort. If you wear your elastics one day and leave them off the next, your teeth set up a resistance that can slow or even stop your progress and discomfort in your mouth will increase.

If you are running low or lose your rubber bands, please contact our office at 214-691-1172. You may pick up more during office hours, or we can mail them to you.