One of the most popular questions asked is, “Will I have to wear rubber bands?” The short answer is, “Yes.” There are very few patients that go the entire course of treatment without having to wear elastics/rubber bands at some point. Orthodontic elastics correct improper bites. A pulling force is applied to the teeth when elastics are worn, working the dental arches against one another to create the desired outcome. There are numerous ways to wear elastics, depending on your specific bite, but it generally involves connecting the top and bottom arches. Once Dr. Montano has determined what classification of bite you have, he will prescribe the necessary type of elastics. The goal of elastic wear is to achieve a proper Class I bite, where all of the teeth occlude properly and there is not an excessive overbite or underbite.

Patient compliance is very important to the success of elastics. Unless directed otherwise, elastics should be worn 24 hours a day. Take them out to eat and brush, and place new ones at least twice a day, usually in the morning and at night. If you run out of or loose your elastics, you may call the office and we can mail you a new bag. If you are ever uncertain of how to wear the elastics or have specific concerns, stop wearing the elastics and call the office for a check appointment. Wearing your elastics the wrong way can cause delays in finishing your treatment!