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Home / Blog / FAQs / Invisalign Elastics – Why Are They Important?

Invisalign Elastics – Why Are They Important?

Medically reviewed by Dr Minoo Ghamari  / Jun 08, 2023  
Medically reviewed by Dr Minoo Ghamari  
Jun 08, 2023  
Invisalign

Have you ever wondered why your Invisalign treatment includes elastics? You may see them as an extra, annoying step that takes time and causes discomfort. But even if you're tempted to skip them, those little rubber bands work and are crucial in getting your teeth to move into the perfect position. Elastics are such an important part of Invisalign treatment - but why? Keep on reading for everything you ought to learn about these peculiar orthodontic helpers.

 

What Are Invisalign Elastics and What Do They Do?

Invisalign elastics, also known as rubber bands or orthodontic ties, are vital to the Invisalign treatment process. They're small, coloured rubber bands, made from elastic rubber that you loop around each of the brackets of your aligners to hold them in place on your teeth.

The Invisalign system uses a combination of gentle force from the aligners and elastics to move aligner your teeth gradually while still allowing you to brush, floss, eat, and speak normally. Without these elastics, your aligners would not be on your upper front teeth.

 

The Importance of Wearing Elastics With Your Invisalign Aligners

Invisalign elastics are an essential part of the treatment process, as they give your aligners the extra grip needed to move your teeth into their desired position. Without them, you could not properly wear and use your aligners. They also help to ensure that your teeth stay in their new locations and your aligners do not drift back to their original placement.

The purpose of wearing Invislaign elastics elastics is to create tension between your aligners and teeth, which helps your teeth move into their desired position. Depending on the stage of treatment, these elastics will be either clear or colourful and may be worn for an extended period of a few days or several weeks before replacing them with a fresh pair.

Elastics might be uncomfortable initially, but they are necessary for effective treatment and can be a fun aspect of the Invisalign experience. Some patients choose to wear the elastics creatively, in multiple colours and patterns or decorative designs. This can encourage you to stay on track with your treatment plan.

 

How to Properly Use Elastics With Your Invisalign Aligners?

Proper use of braces and proper alignment of elastics can make a dramatic difference in the success and speed of your treatment plan.

When using elastics with Invisalign aligners, it is important to ensure you use them correctly. Before putting elastics on your aligners, ensure they fit properly and securely. Then, place the elastic bands around the back molars (the teeth most distant back in your mouth). Start by looping one end of the elastic rubber band first over one tooth and then looping the invisalign rubber bands attach the other end over the other tooth. Then, do the same process with another set of elastics until you have four or more elastic bands in place.

It is important to wear your elastics consistently throughout your Invisalign treatment plan to shift your teeth into their desired positions. If you skip wearing them, it will slow down the process, and your teeth may not move into the correct positions. To ensure you wear them properly, check on them daily and make adjustments if necessary.

 

Benefits of Using Elastics for Better Results With Your Treatment

As an Invisalign patient, you may have been told to wear elastics during treatment. This is because elastics can provide major benefits when achieving the best results with your Invisalign treatment. Below are a few main benefits of using elastics:

Achieving Good Results Quickly

It's natural to desire to have your teeth straightened as soon as possible. That's where elastics come in - like little superheroes for your teeth. These tiny elastic rubber bands help move your teeth into the perfect straighten position in record time by applying gentle force. With elastics, you'll be able to achieve that perfect smile you've been dreaming of faster than you ever thought possible. So don't forget to wear them regularly.

Preventing Relapse

Unfortunately, teeth tend to return to their former locations. This is especially true if you aren't wearing your Invisalign clear aligners as often as possible. Elastics ensure this does not happen and that your teeth stay in the desired positions until your treatment is complete. They are an essential part of the Invisalign process and support to make it more effective by preventing relapse.

Better Alignment

If you want to improve your smile, better alignment is a key factor. Luckily, tools, including the beloved elastic, are available to help you achieve this. By applying added force to certain teeth, these nifty little helpers ensure your aligner can do its job as effectively as possible. Not only that, but elastics help maintain your teeth' position after treatment by providing consistent pressure.  

Improved Bite

Having a comfortable bite is key to enjoying your favourite foods and speaking clearly without discomfort. That's where elastics come in handy. Besides straightening teeth, elastics also assist in aligning the upper jaw, ensuring your pearly whites come together in your mouth in an ideal way. You'll avoid any unnecessary strain on your jaw muscles and joints by utilising elastics. So, take that big juicy bite of your favourite sandwich with confidence, knowing elastics have your back.

 

Tips on How to Wear the Elastics Comfortably and Correctly

Getting your Invisalign treatment off to a great start requires wearing elastics correctly and comfortably. But it can appear daunting for those who are fresh to the process. Here's a quick guide on how you should wear your elastics for optimal results:

Wear the Right Size of Elastics

Ensuring you're wearing the right size of elastics is crucial to achieving a beautiful, healthy smile. Your elastics should be snug - but not painfully tight - and provide the necessary pressure to move your teeth into the correct position. If you're unsure about the right size, don't hesitate to ask your cosmetic dentistry team. They have the expertise and ability to assist in finding the perfect fit, ensuring your orthodontic treatment goes smoothly.  

Follow the Instructions From Your Orthodontist

Your journey to a straighter smile has officially begun! Your orthodontist or Invisalign provider just gave you a set of elastics to wear, and it's important to follow their instructions closely. The key to success is wearing them correctly for the suggested amount of time each day, so ask any questions you have during your visits. At the same time, it could appear like a small step, but wearing your elastics as directed can greatly impact your treatment progress.  

Put Them on After Brushing and Flossing Your Teeth

Keeping your upper and lower teeth both clean is vital, but have you considered the timing of it with your elastics? Before putting on your elastics, ensure your teeth and gums are clean. This helps maintain your oral health and ensures that the elastics work smoothly. Don't forget to thoroughly brush and floss your teeth before putting on those elastics. A little effort can make a major difference in your smile and keep your dentist happy.

Change Them Regularly

Have you been feeling like your elastics are squeezing the life out of your teeth? It may be time for a change. The experts recommend swapping out your elastics every three to five days, depending on how often you wear rubber bands with invisalign. So, if you're a committed braces wearer, you should change them more frequently. Don't wait until they're cutting off your circulation, be proactive and give your teeth the breathing room they deserve. 

 

Final Thoughts

Invisalign elastics are a crucial part of the overall treatment process. They help to ensure that patients' teeth move into their correct position quickly and effectively, so patients need to wear them as directed by their orthodontist.

With regular use of Elastics and other Invisalign treatments, you can expect your smile transformation journey to be successful and completed within the estimated timeline.

If you somehow have any questions or concerns about using Invisalign elastics during your treatment plan, don't hesitate to talk to your orthodontist - they will be more than satisfied to give further advice. Happy aligning!

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