What Do Rubber Bands Do for Braces

Best Rubber Bands for Braces in Houston, Texas

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Braces can help with different orthodontic issues, but sometimes you have to add some rubber bands to get the most benefit. It is important to know when you need small rubber bands for braces so that you are getting your teeth into the proper position within the estimated timeframe. You also have to ensure that you choose the right rubber bands and that you change them and care for them properly so that you are getting the results that you want.

When Do You Get Elastics for Braces?

If you have an overbite do you need rubber bands? What about an underbite or an open bite? All of these orthodontic problems mean that you need to use rubber bands. The right bands and application are important for the specific issue you are experiencing.

What Are the Bands on Braces For?

So, what are the bands on braces for? They work to align your bite during the phase of orthodontic treatment where your teeth are now straight, but your bite needs correction. In some cases, the orthodontist might also recommend elastics if you only need to straighten your teeth because the pressure that they provide can also aid in moving your teeth into the proper position.

Are Elastics the Last Stage of Braces?

This can be the last phase, so if you are wondering, “are elastics the last stage of braces,” the answer is “yes” if your braces are there to also help with bite correction. Now, if your bands are there to help move your teeth, you may need to start using them during the earlier phases of this treatment.

Rubber Bands in Houston, Texas

Is the Strongest Rubber Bands for Braces Always the Best?

You should consider the cost of rubber bands in the average cost of braces, but this does not mean that you always need the strongest and most expensive ones to benefit the most. Your orthodontist will recommend the best elastics for your specific orthodontic condition. As you progress during the phases of treatment, they might suggest different types. It is important to always use the elastics that they are recommending for the most effective treatment.

Underbite Braces Rubber Bands

When you have an underbite, your lower teeth protrude out too far due to lower jaw misalignment. This makes it look like your upper teeth sit too far back in your mouth. With an underbite, the following issues are possible:

  • Issues with speaking
  • Trouble chewing and biting food
  • Jaw misalignment causing facial and mouth pain

Place one end of the elastic on your lower canine and the other on your upper first molar. This corrects an underbite by bringing your lower jaw back into the proper alignment.

See Also: Underbite Treatment

Overbite Braces Rubber Bands

This bite issue means that your upper teeth protrude out, making them cover your bottom teeth. In most cases, this type of misalignment is hereditary, so if your parents had it, you could too. An overbite may cause the following problems:

  • Tooth decay
  • Headaches
  • Not being able to close or open your mouth fully
  • Trouble talking
  • Jaw pain
  • Discomfort when you eat
  • Sleep apnea

Place one end of the rubber bands to fix overbite on your lower first molar and the other on your upper canine. This reduces an overbite by bringing the upper part of your jaw into proper alignment.

Open Bite Rubber Bands for Braces

When your jaws close, there is teeth misalignment when you have an open bite. This is because your teeth slant outward on the bottom and the top. If you have an open bite, it can cause the following problems:

  • Improper chewing and biting of food
  • Difficulties with speech
  • Abnormal wear of your back teeth

A triangular pattern with your elastics for open bite works to bring your lower and upper arches of teeth into the proper alignment. You place the elastics on the top teeth at your canine, and on your bottom teeth at the first premolar and canine. It should make a triangle once the rubber band is in place.

What Are the Different Types of Rubber Bands for Braces?

There are four primary types of elastics for open bite and other orthodontic issues that your orthodontist might recommend. The best type depends on the issue that you are experiencing, and they include:

  • Class II: These are overbite braces rubber bands.
  • Class III: These are underbite braces rubber bands.
  • Front cross elastics: These are for midline alignment.
  • Vertical elastics: These are open bite braces rubber bands.

Food Safe Elastic Bands for Braces

The materials that make up rubber bands for overbite and other orthodontic problems are usually latex. This material is safe to eat with and will not cause issues with the taste of your foods. Just make sure that none of the elastics break when you are eating. If they do, immediately replace them after finishing your meal.

How to Put on Orthodontic Rubber Bands

There are certain things to consider when putting the bands on your braces. It is important to use the proper placement to get the most benefit. Never overstretch elastics for open bite and other orthodontic issues. This can cause discomfort and result in the bands breaking.

When to Wear Teeth Braces Rubber Bands

Elastics for open bite and other orthodontic issues should be in place 24 hours a day. Make sure that you are wearing them when you sleep, eat and play. There are a few exceptions to this rule, including:

  • Remove them for basic dental hygiene
  • When you eat a big meal, but only if you absolutely need to
  • When you are wearing a mouthguard for sports, but immediately replace them when you take out the mouthguard

How Often to Change Orthodontic Rubber Bands

The rubber bands to fix overbite and other orthodontic problems need changing at least every 12 hours. However, many orthodontists recommend that you switch them out about three to four times daily. This helps to ensure that they maintain a good level of elasticity and strength to realign your teeth.

Where to Put Rubber Bands on Full Braces

Whether you are looking at how to put rubber bands on braces for overbite or another orthodontic issue, the steps are generally the same, including:

  • Stand in front of a mirror
  • Hold the band between your pointer finger and thumb
  • Hook one end of the band on your top teeth connecting it to the hook of the braces
  • Hook the other end of the band to your bottom teeth, connecting it to the hook of the braces

What Not to Do When Wearing Elastic Bands for Braces

Whether you are wearing food safe rubber bands or another type, there are some don’ts to remember to protect your bands and braces. These include:

  • Never put two elastics in one spot because this can cause tooth root issues due to too much pressure
  • Do not stretch the bands too far because it reduces their strength so that they are not as effective

How to Remember to Wear Your Rubber Bands on Full Braces

It is important to always wear your braces bands according to your dentist’s recommendations. However, it can sometimes be hard to remember to put them on, especially for kids. The following helps you to remember to put on your elastic bands for braces:

  • Make a specific time in the morning to put your braces bands on
  • Always store your rubber bands in the same place where you see them often
  • Make a time around lunch to put on your teeth braces rubber bands
  • Always keep your small rubber bands for braces on you when you leave the house so that they are handy

Where to Get Rubber Bands for Braces

Your dentist will recommend the braces bands that you need for the orthodontic issue that you are dealing with. It is important to remember that the ones you need could change with time. For example, you may need different rubber bands for the last stage of braces compared to when you first get them.

You can often get braces bands at your dentist’s office. They also have them at most drug stores and big box stores if you need them when your dentist is not open. Rubber bands are relatively inexpensive, so they do not add much to the average cost of braces.

Do the Strongest Rubber Bands for Braces Hurt

Whether wearing them for the last stage of braces or for another issue, there is an adjustment period. It is not uncommon to have some soreness in your jaw and teeth. For most people, this is easily tolerable. As you continue to wear them, the discomfort goes away and you start to get used to the bands.

It is a common misconception that rubber bands are only for the last stage of braces, but there are various reasons to wear braces bands. Your dentist will tell you when to wear rubber bands and for how long. They will also let you know the best type for the orthodontic condition that you are working to correct. To learn more about the types of rubber bands for braces and other important information, call Zara Dental in Houston, Texas, today.

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