Facts About Elastics
We offer various orthodontic treatments to fit the needs and desires of our patients. Every orthodontic treatment comes with hardware that is necessary to shift your teeth into the correct placement. Patients who wear braces may need elastics to help move their teeth and shorten treatment time. Do you know what elastics are and the purpose of wearing them? Read on to learn more about this common item used in many orthodontic treatment plans.
What Are Elastics?
Not every person receiving orthodontic treatment will need to wear elastics, but many do, so we want to take a moment to explain more about these common items. Elastic bands are used to apply additional force to certain areas in the mouth to shift the teeth. Elastics are often used because they can help move treatment along faster. There are two types of elastics that are typically used with braces.
Two Types of Elastics
The first type are miniscule round elastics that are placed around the front of brackets to hold the wire in place. These elastics help apply the pressure needed to move the teeth. They remain on the brackets and are changed at every appointment. Some patients choose a neutral-colored elastic, while others love to pick different colors at every appointment. Some patients choose colors for an upcoming holiday, their favorite color, or even the color of a favorite sports team. It is a simple way to bring some fun into your treatment.
The second form of elastic is slightly larger and is connected to the top and bottom jaws. These elastics are removable and need to be replaced often throughout the day. The thickness of the elastic will depend on what it is being used for during the treatment plan. It is important to remove these elastics before you eat and brush your teeth. If the elastics are not worn as directed, it can impact the effectiveness of your treatment.
If you have any questions about elastics or your current treatment plan, be sure to contact our office, which is located in Southfield, MI, to schedule an appointment. We look forward to seeing you soon!
