What Are Orthodontic Elastics? A Simple Guide
If you’re wearing braces—or know someone who is—you’ve probably heard of orthodontic elastics, or rubber bands. But what exactly are they, and why are they important in straightening teeth?
What Are Orthodontic Elastics?
Orthodontic elastics are small rubber bands that your orthodontist hooks onto your braces. They come in different sizes and strengths, depending on what your teeth need.
Orthodontic elastics go from one part of your mouth to another, like top to bottom or side to side, to help move your teeth in specific directions.
What Do They Do?
Braces mostly help move your teeth up, down, forward, and backward. But to correct your bite—how your top and bottom teeth fit together—you need a little extra help with these elastics.
They:
- Pull teeth together so your bite aligns properly
- Correct overbites or underbites
- Help fix midline issues (if your top teeth don’t line up with your bottom teeth)
How Long Do You Have to Wear Them?
You usually wear elastics 24/7, only taking them out to eat, brush, or change them.
👉 Consistency is key. Skipping elastics or not wearing them enough can delay your treatment or even undo progress.
Do They Hurt?
At first, yes—they can make your teeth sore, just like when you first got your braces. But the soreness goes away in a few days.
Tip: The more consistently you wear them, the faster your mouth gets used to them—and the faster your teeth move!
✅ Quick Tips for Wearing Orthodontic Elastics
- Follow your orthodontist’s instructions exactly—no guessing!
- Change them as often as you’re told
- Keep extras with you in case one breaks
- Don’t double up unless your orthodontist says to—it won’t make your teeth move faster!
