"Elastics" are the main way that we move your teeth to fit them together properly when you bite. Different people may need to wear their elastic bands in different directions, depending on their original problem. Most people need to wear elastic bands for part of their orthodontic treatment.

How much do I need to wear my Elastics?

If you do not wear your elastic bands all the time or as instructed by your orthodontist, your teeth will not move and you will never finish your orthodontic treatment. The quality of your end result and finishing your treatment on time depends on you wearing your elastic bands as requested. Cooperation is the key to success.

What do I feel?

Elastics may make your teeth tender to begin with. It will feel like it does when you have a new wire placed. DO NOT STOP wearing your elastics once you have started. Restarting will make your teeth sore all over again.

When wearing elastics...

• Change your elastic every 24 hours or as necessary.
• Always carry a spare packet with you incase you need to replace one.
• Always check that your elastic is not caught up on any other bracket.
• Always check that your elastic is not twisted or crossed over (like a figure 8).

What if I DO NOT wear my Elastics?

It is vital that you wear your elastics consistently. If you dont it is impossible to achieve the result that all of us want for your smile. Wearing elastics is like rolling a ball up hill. If you stop pushing, the ball rolls backwards far quicker than it went forward and you have to start all over again.

Remember every day that you are wearing your elastics is one day closer to getting your braces off.