Everything You Need to Know About Rubber Bands for Braces
Find out how rubber bands for braces affect your bite and how to properly take care of your teeth while wearing them
Rubber bands for braces are a common accessory that most individuals with bite problems will need during their corrective treatment. When your orthodontist recommends rubber bands, it means there is an issue with your bite that needs extra attention in order to be fixed.
Rubber bands are attached to your braces and can be arranged in a variety of different ways depending on your orthodontic needs. Today, we’ll be discussing how rubber bands for braces help correct your bite during treatment and everything you can expect when your orthodontist recommends them. Let’s get started!
What Types of Issues Can Be Corrected Using Rubber Bands for Braces?
Let’s get into how rubber bands for braces work to correct your bite
There are several different ways to use rubber bands to get your bite under control.
Many people learning about braces treatment often wonder why orthodontists use rubber bands with braces. During your treatment, rubber bands are attached to metal hooks and are designed to exert pressure on your jaw to correct your bite. The metal hooks can be found in any location on your braces and your rubber bands can be placed in any configuration that your orthodontist deems necessary. Once they are properly attached and worn, your rubber bands apply pressure to different areas of your jaw and slowly adjust your bite. The most common issues that rubber bands can solve are:
Overbite
Underbite
Open bite
Crossbite
Teeth spacing
When your orthodontist tells you where to place your rubber bands, they will also explain to you the reason you need to wear them and the desired results. Now that you know how they work, let’s answer some common questions on how to use them.
How Long Do Rubber Bands for Braces Last?
Remembering to replace your rubber bands is key for getting the best results possible
Orthodontic rubber bands can only last for a little while before weakening.
One of the most important things to remember about rubber bands for braces is to replace them regularly. As you open and close your mouth, the elasticity of your rubber bands will eventually decrease. There are also instances where a rubber band will snap inside your mouth if stretched too far. Whenever you notice your rubber band becoming weaker and less elastic, you should replace it immediately.
When you wear rubber bands, you will have to replace them often. Most patients find they need to replace their rubber bands several times each day. Because they need to be replaced so often, you should keep a carrying case of rubber bands on you whenever you leave the house.
Is It Okay to Eat with Your Rubber Bands Attached?
Depending on your rubber band configuration, you may have to remove your rubber bands to eat
Depending on your rubber band placement, you may need to briefly remove them while eating.
Many people who wear rubber bands for braces are prescribed to wear them all the time, or as much as they possibly can. However, for those that are correcting a crossbite, there may be some difficulty eating as the rubber bands will cross diagonally from the right to the left side of your jaw. In this case, you may need to remove your rubber bands to eat properly. It is also recommended to remove rubber bands any time you brush and floss your teeth.
How Should I Care For My Teeth While Wearing Rubber Bands?
There are a few changes you’ll need to make to your daily routine to care for your teeth while wearing rubber bands
Ask your orthodontist if you have any questions about using rubber bands.
When you start wearing rubber bands, your orthodontist will offer you some advice on how to keep your mouth healthy. The first thing you should take note of is how your orthodontist recommends you attach and remove each rubber band. Should you attach your rubber bands incorrectly, it could exacerbate your bite problems. Here are a few other key points from orthodontists that you should keep in mind during treatment:
Never use two rubber bands on the same attachments
Always keep extra rubber bands on you
Brush your teeth after every meal or at least 3 times a day
Avoid any foods that are not recommended for braces wearers
Remove your rubber bands to brush properly
Now that you’re all caught up on everything you need to know about rubber bands for braces, you are on track for a successful treatment.
If you are interested in learning more or still have lingering questions about rubber bands for braces, you can always contact an orthodontist. At Legacy Orthodontics — Leesburg VA’s premier provider — we’ll answer all your questions, show you what your smile can look like, and assist you through every step of your teeth straightening process. For more information about straightening your teeth, you can call to book a free consultation with Legacy Orthodontics.