Elastics: how and why

The wire lines your teeth up, but it cannot control how the top and bottom teeth meet. That is the job of the small rubber bands (elastics) you hook between them, and they only move things while they are in. This is the stage of treatment that is most in your hands, and the one that most often decides how long treatment takes.

Your pattern

Each elastic runs between a hook on a top bracket and a hook on a bottom bracket. Which hooks, and on which side, is your pattern, and it is specific to your bite. We show you in the mirror at the visit where they start, and we write or draw it down so you can check. If you are ever unsure which hooks, do not guess: message us a photo and we will confirm.

Elastics come in sizes and strengths. Use only the ones we give you, and the size written on the packet. A different size does a different job.

Putting them on

1. Clean hands

   Wash them. You will be reaching into your mouth many times a day.

2. Hook the top first

   Stretch the band over the top hook, then pull it down to the bottom one. A plastic elastic placer, if we gave you one, makes the back hooks easier.

3. Check in the mirror

   Same hooks as the drawing, both sides if your pattern is both sides.

4. Change them

   At least once a day, and any time one snaps. Tie the change to something you already do, like brushing at night.

Completely normal

• Tender teeth and a tired jaw for the first two or three days. It settles.
• A slight lisp or extra saliva on day one.
• A mild ache after a pattern change. That means they are working.
• Bands snapping occasionally. Just put a new one on.

Message us if

• You are running low on bands. We will sort more.
• A hook or bracket breaks, or bands keep snapping in the same place.
• Discomfort lasts beyond a few days.
• You have lost the pattern and are not sure where they go.

Call us on (09)520 1880 or email hello@milkorthodontics.co.nz.

Common questions

More hours in means fewer months in braces. Physics does not negotiate.