Braces are amazing at repairing smiles, but they don’t always do it alone. Orthodontists use other appliances and tools with braces to improve a patient’s smile. One such tool is rubber bands for braces.
Why does Petrous Orthodontics use rubber bands for braces? We often use them to help realign your teeth and jaws while your braces move them into their proper positions. Not every patient wears rubber bands, and those who do wear different types for different purposes.
What are the different types of orthodontic rubber bands, and why would you need them? We can answer those questions and more!
Braces rubber bands are different from the colored ties you often see on traditional metal and clear braces. Those small ties — called ligatures — wrap around each bracket to hold the archwire in place. Rubber bands are larger and typically stretch between the upper and lower jaw to help correct bite alignment.
Rubber bands for braces are made from a non-toxic material that can be stretched further than bracket elastics. Unlike those, rubber bands can be added and removed by the patient. They apply pressure to your jaws to realign them.
We prescribe different types of rubber bands depending on your treatment plan. We’ll let you know how to place them, how long you’ll wear them, and whether you’ll need different types at different times. We strongly recommend you wear those rubber bands as prescribed so your treatment time isn’t delayed.
How do rubber bands help your smile? Your jaws are designed to line up so your teeth fit together snugly when your jaws are at rest. If your jaws or teeth have shifted, they won’t align properly and won’t function properly.
Misaligned jaws can lead to jaw pain and fatigue, particularly after chewing or speaking, as well as headaches, neck aches, and even problems with eating and speech.
Braces move your teeth back into place properly, and rubber bands help shift your teeth and jaws forward or backward to where they belong.
There are three classifications, or types, of braces rubber bands. Each has a certain size or thickness and a specific purpose. Here are the different classes of rubber bands.
Some patients may only need one type during treatment, while others may need more than one. We will determine that as part of your treatment plan after your first visit and evaluation.
How do you place rubber bands on braces? Your braces will have certain brackets with tiny hooks. The rubber bands fit on those hooks. Here are some tips on wearing your rubber bands.
One thing patients want to know: Do braces rubber bands hurt?
As with other braces adjustments, your teeth might be sensitive or sore when you first get your rubber bands. That only lasts a few days as your teeth get used to the rubber bands moving them. After that, you’ll get used to the rubber bands, and they shouldn’t hurt.
Until then, we recommend you eat soft foods for the first few days after getting your rubber bands. You can rinse with warm salt water to help soothe your teeth and gums, and use an over-the-counter pain reliever as directed if necessary.
Braces rubber bands are non-toxic and safe to use. If you accidentally swallow one, it should pass through your digestive system within 24 hours. However, if you accidentally inhale the rubber band, we recommend you visit the ER right away. Both instances are rare, however. Most patients wear rubber bands safely throughout their prescribed time.
Let us know during your first visit if you are allergic to latex. We will use non-latex gloves during your treatment, and we can prescribe non-latex rubber bands for your treatment.
Some patients never need them, while others may need them for several months. The time you need in rubber bands depends on the severity of your dental issues. We will evaluate your orthodontic issues and let you know how long you will need rubber bands.
We’ll show you how to place your rubber bands when you first get them, and we’ll let you put them in and remove them yourself. If you have any questions or trouble with your rubber bands, just give us a call.
Rubber bands for braces are one of the many tools we use to create your perfect smile. Our expertise and technology will help you create a whole new smile in a matter of months.
If you’re ready for an amazing new smile, schedule an appointment for orthodontics in Royal Oak, MI, with Petrous Orthodontics!
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