It’s not uncommon for patients with traditional braces to need rubber bands, but if you’ve never worn them before, you probably have a lot of questions. Rest assured, there’s a good reason why your orthodontist in Palm Harbor is including them in your treatment plan! Keep reading to learn what they’re used for and how you should go about your daily routine.
What Are Rubber Bands Used For?
Basically, rubber bands (or “elastics”) are used to apply increased amounts of pressure in very specific ways. Most often, they connect the upper and lower jaw, and encourage movement that will correct an overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite. But they can also be wrapped around brackets that are right next to each other horizontally, in which case they’ll help close wide gaps between teeth.
How Long Will I Wear Them?
It depends on your specific case. Some patients only need to wear them for a few weeks, while others have to wear them for a couple of months. Either way, your orthodontist will be able to give you a more precise idea of how long you can expect them to be part of your treatment plan.
Can I Eat While Wearing Rubber Bands?
Yes, though some patients find it easier to remove their rubber bands during meals. Removing these elastics is fairly simple, and you should be able to pull them off the brackets with your finger or an orthodontic pick. They are made to stretch but try not to strain them to the point of breaking.
Before you make removing your rubber bands a habit, be sure to ask your orthodontist if it’s okay for you to do so.
What Do I Do if They Break?
Firstly, don’t panic. It’s not exactly rare for rubber bands to break, as over time, the elastic simply loses its strength. If you don’t already have a pack of extras, call your orthodontist to request them. Then stretch the band across the same brackets as the previous elastic.
Since they’re designed to help your bite and teeth move into more ideal positions, it’s best to replace a broken rubber band as soon as possible.
Talk to Your Orthodontist
If you still have a million questions about wearing rubber bands with your braces, no one would blame you! Your orthodontist would be happy to give you more information and offer advice, so don’t hesitate to give them a call. When in doubt, you can count on your Orthodontist to help out.
About the Author
Dr. Alex J. Johnson is a certified orthodontist in Palm Harbor, Florida. He himself needed braces as a teenager, so he can sympathize with his patients and knows what kind of questions they might have about their treatment. If you’d like more information on wearing rubber bands with metal orthodontics, Dr. Johnson will listen attentively and make sure you’re well informed. To contact his office for an appointment, call 727-786-7550.