When you think about orthodontics and braces, images of wires and brackets probably pop into your head. While traditional braces rely on a system of archwires and brackets, some also include an extra component – orthodontic elastics or rubber bands.
In this blog, Dr. Duval focuses on orthodontic elastics, often the unsung hero in an orthodontic treatment plan for children and adults.
Let’s begin this discussion by reviewing the components that make up traditional braces and their purpose in moving your teeth into optimal alignment. Whether your orthodontist prescribes metal or ceramic braces, the main components are the same – brackets and archwires.
Brackets provide a foundation for braces and get bonded to each tooth. Thin, flexible archwires connect to the brackets. This critical connection creates gentle force, making tooth movement happen.
You visit the office periodically for an archwire adjustment throughout your orthodontic treatment plan. The purpose of adjustments is to maintain consistent pressure to keep your teeth moving gradually into proper alignment. Your orthodontist recommends adding orthodontic elastics to the treatment plan to add extra oomph for tooth movement.
When the brackets and archwires connect, you sometimes encounter the terms ligation or ligatures. Ligation refers to attaching the two components. The options are steel wires, clips — known as self-ligating brackets, and rubber bands.
There are two types of orthodontic elastics: one that your orthodontist manages during adjustment appointments and another that you manage.
Elastic ligatures are orthodontist-placed elastic ties, bands, or O-rings that fix the archwire to the brackets. Ligatures are the primary players in adjustment appointments. Your orthodontist removes the ligature, makes a tension change in the archwire, and then reattaches a ligature to the archwire and the bracket using a new ligature.
Another application for orthodontic elastics is interarch elastics, also called interarch bands. Interarch elastics are longer bands that connect brackets on the upper teeth with those in the lower teeth. Your orthodontist prescribes interarch elastics to provide extra pressure or force as part of your treatment plan.
Bands can be attached in various patterns as determined by your treatment plan, depending on what best tackles your jaw alignment or bite issue. Hooks on the brackets attach and secure the bands.
Both elastic ligatures and interarch elastics come in various colors, so if your treatment plans call for orthodontic elastics, discuss your options with your orthodontist and have fun with them.
Both elastic ligatures and interarch elastics are essential in completing your orthodontic treatment plan. Dr. Duval and the professional team at Duval Orthodontics provide you with detailed at-home care and maintenance for best practices.
Always keep a supply of interarch elastics with you, as you replace them a few times daily. Take extra care to keep the archwires and bracket hooks in good condition. Remember to remove them when eating, before flossing and brushing your teeth, and follow all your orthodontist’s instructions.
Here at Duval Orthodontics, we know that life happens regardless of how well you follow your care instructions. Call us immediately if you are between appointments and a ligature elastic pops off, breaks, or even seems a little loose.
While in the context of your comprehensive treatment plan, a missing ligature or interarch elastic may seem minor; however, consistent force or pressure is a key ingredient to getting your best smile ever. A treatment plan disruption may lengthen expected completion or undermine the desired results.
If you’re ready to take the first step in getting your dream smile, contact us to schedule an appointment. Book your visit today by calling our office in Warner Robins or Albany, Georgia, or using the online scheduling feature.
