Elastics in Clear Aligner Treatment: What They Are and How They Work

When starting your clear aligner treatment, your doctor might mention the need of using “Elastics” or also called “Rubber bands. You might ask, what are elastics? Do I really need them for my treatment? This guide will answer everything you need to know about elastics in clear aligner treatments, what they are, how they work and why your doctor might recommend them for your case.

What are Elastics or Rubber Bands?‍

Elastics are bands designed to improve the alignment of your bite or the positioning of your jaw. While clear aligners are made to align your teeth, elastics may be paired with aligners to treat more complex bite issues. Elastics work by applying force to certain areas of your mouth which helps to correct alignment problems.

Do You Need Elastics for Your Clear Aligner Treatment?

The need for elastics in clear aligner treatments depend on the specific case or alignment issue your doctor is trying to fix. Common reasons why elastics may be used include:

1. Correcting Bite issues: Open bites, underbites, or crossbites
2. Jaw Alignment: Anteroposterior discrepancies & correction of canine relationship

It's important to note that doctors have the autonomy to add elastics, Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs), or buttons to your treatment plan based on the complexity of your case.

How do Elastics Work in Clear Aligner Treatments? ‍

Elastics work by creating tension between different parts of your mouth. They are attached to small hooks on the aligners themselves or buttons bonded to teeth, and are positioned to move your teeth into the desired position. You may wear elastics on one or both sides of your mouth depending on your case.

How to Put on Elastics With Clear Aligners?

Attaching elastics may be tricky at first, but with practice, it becomes easier. There are two primary ways to attach elastics to your teeth:

1. Using hooks on the aligner
2. Using bonded buttons

First, locate the hooks on the aligner and hook the elastic to its designated precision cut. Once the elastic is set on one aligner, wear that aligner first, followed by the opposing one. Usually, the opposing aligner would have a button cut-out to accommodate a button directly bonded to the tooth. This is where you should hook the same elastic. This is a general guide, but the exact way to wear your elastics with aligners will depend on your case and the configuration recommended by your dentist, as some cases may only involve buttons without hooks.

How Long Should You Wear Your Elastics? 

For optimal results, elastics should be worn for the same 22 hours a day as your aligners. They should only be removed while eating and drinking.
The total duration of wearing elastics will depend on your specific case. Some may need them for a few months, others may need them for a longer period. Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions to achieve the best results. 

Common mistakes to avoid when wearing your elastics

When using elastics with your aligners, it's important to avoid common mistakes that could affect your progress, they include:

Not wearing elastics consistently‍

Failing to wear elastics consistently as recommended by your doctor may result in delaying your treatment.

Incorrect placement

‍ Make sure you’re placing the elastics as directed by your doctor to ensure the best results.

Not wearing all of your elastics

‍ If your doctor instructed you to wear several elastics, and you leave out one or more of them, while wearing the other/s, this could have detrimental effects on your dentition. Thus, make sure you wear all elastics as instructed. 

Wearing the same elastics for too long

The elastics you wear must be replaced every day since they tend to lose their effect over time. 

Conclusion

Elastics play an important role in enhancing the effectiveness of clear aligner treatments especially for complex cases and bite issues. Although using elastics may require some practice, following your doctor’s instructions will ensure your treatment progresses smoothly. If you have any concerns or questions about wearing your elastics, consult with your doctor to get the most of your treatment outcome.

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