Orthodontic Elastics
Instructions and what to expect with your child’s orthodontic elastics.
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What Are Orthodontic Elastics?
- Small rubber bands worn between selected upper and lower teeth to apply gentle, controlled force
- Used with braces or other orthodontic appliances to help guide the teeth and bite into the desired position
- Elastic size, strength, and attachment pattern are prescribed specifically for each patient
Why Elastics Are Used
- Help correct bite relationships between the upper and lower teeth
- May be used to improve overbite, underbite, crossbite, midline, or other bite discrepancies
- Support tooth movement that braces or aligners may not accomplish efficiently on their own
Wear Instructions (CRITICAL)
- Wear elastics exactly as prescribed by your orthodontist
- Keep the elastics attached in the exact pattern demonstrated at your appointment
- Unless instructed otherwise, remove elastics for eating and brushing, then replace them immediately afterward
- Replace elastics with fresh ones as directed because they lose strength with use
- Carry extra elastics with you so missed or broken elastics can be replaced promptly
- Do not double the number of elastics to make up for missed wear unless specifically instructed
What to Expect
- Mild soreness or pressure is common when elastics are first started or after a change in the elastic pattern
- Consistent wear usually allows the teeth and jaw to adapt within a few days
- Stopping and restarting elastics can repeatedly bring back soreness and may slow treatment progress
Compliance Matters
- Elastics only work when they are worn consistently and exactly as prescribed
- Inconsistent wear can delay bite correction and extend overall treatment time
- Do not change the elastic pattern, size, or strength without instructions from the orthodontist
Questions About Your Child's Appliance?
If you have any questions or concerns about your child's orthodontic appliance, our team is here to help. Call our Dupont office and we'll walk you through it.
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