Importance of elastics in orthodontics

Why do you wear elastics during orthodontic treatment?

Some patients are instructed to wear elastics during their orthodontic treatment, while other patients never wear elastics. 

Why and what’s the difference? 

The difference is the bite, or how the upper teeth fit with the lower teeth when you bite down.

There is a desirable fit or bite that all orthodontists agree is correct. If your teeth don’t meet a certain fit, then your orthodontist will instruct you to wear elastics to move your teeth to this desirable position.

**Note** Elastics don’t move your jaw position, yet many patients mistakenly believe this. 

Do elastics hurt to wear? 

Yes, but only for the first couple of days if you wear them as instructed.  Usually that means full time. Then, you won’t even feel them since your teeth are accustomed to them. 

If elastics are worn diligently they work very quickly; however, if elastics are worn differently than instructed, they may not work at all.

Elastics can be worn in many different configurations depending on the fit of your teeth. Consult your orthodontist with any questions about your elastics. 

Also, if elastics are worn diligently they work very quickly. On the other hand, if they are worn differently than instructed they may not work at all.