During your orthodontic treatment (both with braces and aligners), at some point your orthodontist will ask you to wear elastics. These elastics apply small controlled forces on some of your teeth with the intention of gradually moving them to a certain position.
Which is their main function?
The main function of the elastics is to move teeth in a certain direction, and/or to prevent unwanted movements of some teeth.
They can be used in different positions, so I personally usually recommend to patients that in visits where we start with elastics, or change their position of use, it is good to take photos of yourself with your mobile phone so as not to forget which teeth you should use them on.
How important is their use?
VERY IMPORTANT!
It is highly important that you place them correctly on the teeth indicated by your orthodontist, and for the recommended time, since otherwise not only will it not improve, but it may even worsen the treatment results.
Where are they placed on?
You may have noticed that some of the brackets have small “hooks” whose main function is to serve as retention for the elastics. Other times the elastics can be attached to the brackets or tubes directly, or to miniscrews and buttons that your orthodontist can place in certain cases.
Regarding the aligners, the elastics can be attached to the aligner itself or to buttons that have been placed specifically for that function.
Are there different types?
Yes, elastics are usually classified according to their strength (normally expressed in ounces or grams), and their size (expressed in inches or millimeters).
On the same patient, your orthodontist may use different types of elastics during different stages of treatment. It is important that you only use the elastics that your orthodontist recommends at each stage to achieve the expected results.
How long do I have to use them for?
This depends on the problem we are trying to solve, and the stage you are in.
In many cases the elastics are used at night, other times it is necessary to add a few hours during the day, and at certain times of the treatment even 24 hours a day except for eating.
Where can I get more elastics If I run out of them?
If you run out of elastics, you should contact your orthodontist or dental clinic you visit as soon as possible so that they can give you more. You should not wait for your next appointment unless they recommend it to you.
You should never wear elastics that have not been given to you by the orthodontist handling your treatment. The incorrect use of elastics can worsen and delay your treatment.
