A very normal and common part of orthodontic treatment is the use of elastics, which are also known as rubber bands. These devices are crucial to helping teeth to move into the proper position. Wearing them as instructed is a crucial part of making sure your treatment is completed correctly and in a timely manner. The elastics are supposed to be worn approximately 20-22 hours a day and should only be removed to eat and then to brush and floss their teeth. Additionally, elastics should be changed out for new ones about three times a day. Keep reading for some advice from Dr. Amir Davoody at Davoody and Hablinski Orthodontics about why elastics are important.
Elastics allow for the jaw and bite alignment to occur. But they are also the patient’s responsibility, and if the patient does not choose to wear them as directed, it may prolong treatment or affect the final result. Before leaving the office, the patient needs to make sure they understand where and when to wear their rubber bands.