Page 14 - Orthosmile Orthodontics

What Are Elastics and Why Are

They Important?

Elastics are a vital part of treatment and are also
contingent upon patient compliance. They add extra
pressure to the braces to help move the teeth, close up
spaces and bring your upper and lower teeth together.
Generally worn at all times (excluding eating and
brushing your teeth), elastics should be changed at least
once a day. They come in various sizes as they are each
used for a speci c purpose. We will provide you with the
appropriate size. We will also tell you which direction to
hook your elastics so make sure they are worn exactly in
the correct position when you hook your elastics.

Change to a new elastic once every twenty-four hours or
whatever duration we have told you. Remember rubber
bands get tired, too! Only ever remove them while
cleaning the teeth and replace them immediately
afterwards. If one breaks, immediately put on new ones
on both sides to ensure even tension. If you are running
low on elastics, come in and get more. NEVER run out! REMEMBER TO:

Remember, wearing elastics to move teeth is like • Wear your elastics full time: eg. During eating, in
climbing a rope - it takes a continuous effort to school, at home, when going out, sleeping.
accomplish both jobs; but if you let up, leave your • Change new elastics once a day.
elastics off for even a short time (i.e. one hour), you will • Always make sure elastics are placed on both
lose all the movement gained in the past 24 hours - sides. Therefore, if one elastic breaks for any
you're back to the bottom of the rope! Thus, it is reason, always put new ones back on both sides.
important to wear them consistently or treatment • Never put more elastics than is recommended
setbacks may occur. otherwise your teeth may be damaged.

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