A BRIEF INTRODUCTION OF ORTHODONTIC ELASTICS

Orthodontic elastics, commonly called rubber bands, are small, stretchy bands used in braces or clear aligner treatments like Invisalign. They apply targeted, gentle pressure to move teeth and correct bite issues that braces alone can't fully address.

Purpose

They connect hooks on upper and lower brackets (or aligner attachments) to guide jaws and teeth into proper alignment. Common uses include fixing:

• Overbites
• Underbites
• Crossbites
• Open bites
• Midline shifts

Without consistent wear, treatment can stall or prolong.

Photo from www.belmarorthodontics.com

Types and Configurations

Orthodontists prescribe elastics based on size, strength, and pattern (often named after animals for easy recall, like "rabbit" or "fox").

Main interarch types include:

• Class II → From upper front teeth/canines to lower back molars; corrects overbites by pulling the upper jaw back or lower jaw forward.
• Class III → From lower front teeth to upper back molars; corrects underbites by pulling the lower jaw back or upper jaw forward.

Other configurations:

• Vertical
• Box
• Triangle
• Cross

Photo from ajohas.com

How to Wear Them

• 1. Wash hands.
• 2. Hook one end on the designated upper hook.
• 3. Stretch and hook the other end on the lower hook (use a mirror or elastic placer tool if needed).

Wear them full-time (20–24 hours/day) unless instructed otherwise—remove only for eating, brushing, or flossing, then replace immediately with fresh ones.

Change elastics 3–4 times daily, as they lose strength quickly.

Initial soreness is normal (use pain relief if needed), but consistency prevents ongoing discomfort.

Carry extras and follow your orthodontist's exact configuration—doubling up or skipping days can harm progress.

Non-latex options exist for allergies. Always consult your orthodontist for personalized advice.