Rubber Bands

When are they worn?
Generally they should be worn at all times (excluding eating and brushing your teeth). Dr. Kallis may recommend that you wear them part time. He will determine a suitable schedule for you to follow. It is important to wear them consistently or treatment setbacks may occur. If only one day is missed, it could cause your teeth to shift back to their original position!

Why are they used?
Rubber bands add extra pressure to the braces to help move the teeth. For instance, in the event that the upper teeth are positioned to far forward and the lower teeth are positioned too far back, the rubber bands will be extended from the upper front teeth to the lower back teeth.

When should they be changed?
They should be changed at least once a day. You should always carry extra rubber bands with you in the event one breaks. Pick up plenty from the office. Setbacks may occur if you fail to wear them consistently. If you run out, please call us immediately and we will supply you with more.

What can you expect after the elastics are placed?
Following initial placement of the bands, your teeth may be sore. This soreness should subside within a few days. Do not panic if your teeth become loose. This is a common response to the pressure imposed on the teeth by the elastics. Pay close attention to the progress of teeth movement.

Do rubber bands come in different sizes?
Yes. They come in various sizes; each used for a specific purpose. Please wear only the appropriate size that we provide.

Why are they important?
Rubber bands are a vital part of treatment. Progress is contingent upon patient compliance. Wearing them one day and leaving them off the next can cause a resistance that may delay or even halt your treatment progress. If you wear your rubber bands all week, with the exception of one day, your teeth could revert back to their original position.

What is your responsibility at each appointment?
Before you leave the office, make sure you have enough rubber bands until the next appointment. Call the office immediately if you run out. If you cannot pick them up from the office, we would be glad to mail them to you. Also, if you are unsure about the placement of each rubber band, be sure to ask Dr. Kallis.