Common Problems
Patient Questions
Types of Braces
First Aid
Brushing & Flossing
Appliance Care
 

 

 Patient Questions: Elastics

Elastics
  1. Why are elastics (rubber bands) needed?
  2. How often should the elastics be worn?
  3. What if I run out of elastics?
  4. What if I don't know how to wear the elastics?
 

Why are elastics (rubber bands) needed?

Elastics are utilized to correct the improper fit of the upper and lower teeth rather than "straightening" the teeth.
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How often should the elastics be worn?

24 hours per day for the correction to occur in a timely manner. Even leaving the elastics out for a short period of time (such as mealtime) may cause a setback of 8-10 hours in the biomechanical movement of the teeth. The elastics should be replaced at least once a day.
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What if I run out of elastics?

Please drop by the office to pick up a package or call the office and we will mail them to you.
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What if I don't know how to wear the elastics?

If there is any confusion, please call the office. The following diagram may aid in communication on where to attach the elastics.

palmer

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