Short answer: Orthodontic elastics are small elastic rings attached to hooks on the upper and lower teeth that apply force between the jaws. In most treatments they are worn all day except when eating and brushing, and because they lose their stretch they are replaced several times a day. The orthodontist decides where they go and how long they are worn.
What do elastics do?
- Correct the front-to-back relationship of the upper and lower teeth
- Close areas left open between the front teeth
- Correct midline shifts
- Fine-tune the bite
How are they put on?
- Wash your hands and stand in front of a mirror.
- Attach the elastic first to the hook that is harder to reach.
- Stretch the elastic across to the other hook; you can use a placement tool if you like.
- With clear aligners, the elastic is attached to cut-outs in the aligner or to buttons bonded to the teeth.
Rules for daily use
- Take them out for eating and brushing, then put in new ones.
- Do not double the elastics; the force may become too strong.
- Carry spare elastics with you.
- Let the clinic know before you run out of elastics.
What happens if you do not wear your elastics?
Elastics play a critical role in correcting the bite. Irregular wear can lengthen treatment and may require additional stages. Tenderness in the teeth in the first days is expected and eases with regular wear. For the use of elastics with clear aligners, see our guide to using clear aligners.
Frequently asked questions
Are elastics worn at night too?
In most treatments, yes; the exact hours of wear are set by the orthodontist.
What should I do if an elastic breaks?
Put in a new one straight away; if there is a problem with a hook, let the clinic know.
Do elastics make the teeth sore?
Pressure may be felt in the first days; it eases with regular wear.
Which appliance is right for you?
Which appliance is needed is decided after age, growth stage and the condition of the teeth and jaws have been assessed by examination and X-rays. At our clinic in Oran, Çankaya, Ankara, we discuss the options with you during the first orthodontic examination. To see all types of appliance in one place, take a look at our guide to orthodontic appliances.
