{"id":129,"date":"2023-01-16T17:20:37","date_gmt":"2023-01-16T17:20:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.simplyorthowebster.com\/blog\/?p=129"},"modified":"2023-01-16T17:20:39","modified_gmt":"2023-01-16T17:20:39","slug":"why-rubber-bands-for-braces-are-necessary","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.simplyorthowebster.com\/blog\/2023\/01\/16\/why-rubber-bands-for-braces-are-necessary\/","title":{"rendered":"Rubber Bands for Braces: Why Are They Necessary?"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n
\"Closeup<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

When patients hear \u201ctraditional orthodontics,\u201d they often think \u201cmetal brackets and wires.\u201d In reality, straightening your teeth could involve the use of other tools, including rubber bands for braces<\/a>. To learn the important purpose they serve (as well as a few helpful best practices for patients with them), read on!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Why Are Rubber Bands Necessary?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Rubber bands (also referred to as \u201celastics\u201d) are instrumental in some treatment plans because they apply force to a specific area of the mouth. To accomplish this, they are secured to the metal hooks of the bracket in a specific conformation. The placement will depend on the issue that\u2019s being corrected, such as bite problems (i.e., overbites, underbites, open bites), gapped teeth, or a tooth that is tilted out of position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Often Should You Wear Your Rubber Bands?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

While the majority of patients are expected to wear their rubber bands as often as possible, there are some cases where they are only necessary at night. Don\u2019t worry \u2013 your orthodontist will provide you with all of the information you need, including how often you should wear them. Even if it is the majority of the time, you\u2019ll be able to remove them to eat and complete your oral hygiene regimen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Dos and Don\u2019ts of Rubber Bands<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If rubber bands are a part of your treatment plan, it\u2019s important that you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n