Elastics

Attached to your braces, elastics (rubber bands) exert the proper force that creates the right amount of pressure to move teeth. In order for this force to remain constant, elastics must be worn all the time and changed once a day. Any time missed in wearing your elastics will only make your treatment take longer, so remember these things:

• Wearing elastics will initially make your teeth sore. This soreness will go away after a couple of days of continuous wear. 
• Giving your teeth a “break” elastics will only make them feel sore again the next time you wear them and prolong treatment.
• Consistent elastic wear is one of the most critical determinants of whether treatment is completed on time.
• Wear your rubber bands 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, unless otherwise instructed. The only times that you are allowed to take them off are during brushing and meals. We do not recommend taking them off for small snacks.
• Always carry a few elastics with you, so if one breaks you can replace it right away.
• If your supply is low or you run out of elastics, please call the office and we will mail you an additional supply of elastics.
• If you forget to insert your elastics one day, don’t double up the next day — just follow your regular instructions.

If your elastics break frequently, a wire or band loosens, or a hook breaks off — call our office immediately at 603-924-3040 . Don’t wait until your next appointment. These problems need to be corrected as soon as possible!