Braces can be quite a burden to take on however, they’re worth it every step of the way. They produce a beautiful smile that will last the rest of your life. Many people will experience the use of small rubber bands while making their way through the process of braces. These bands can seem like they’re not doing anything, however, they have a very specific use.
What are Rubber Bands Used For?
Rubber bands usually get used a little later in the braces process. However, they can be utilized at any time during the time braces are on a patient’s teeth. It will be up to the dental professional on when they’re applied and not applied. Each dental professional will explain what they’re being used for and why if you ask. Rubber bands are used specifically for adjusting jaw positioning and bite adjustment.
How Do They Work?
The rubber bands attach to hooks on the upper and lower brackets of the braces. This means that one end of the rubber band attaches to the top portion of the teeth while the bottom portion of the rubber band attaches to the bottom teeth. There are various sizes of rubber bands which provide varying resistance. This resistance is what allows the bite and jaw to adjust as needed. You will notice that your mouth will be harder to open and operate because those rubber bands are forcing your jaw and mouth to stay in a certain position. This ultimately leads to your jaw being adjusted to the perfect position for biting, talking, etc.
What are the Limitations of the Bands?
Rubber bands are pretty easy to remove and replace. Most dental professional will just give you replacement bands so if your bands snap, you can replace them. They will show you where to attach them and they will give you the correct size bands you will need. It’s advised to not wear the rubber bands when eating, brushing, flossing, etc. These actions will be inhibited severely by the bands being in your mouth. For proper brushing, flossing, etc. you will need to remove the bands and then go about these steps. Be sure to place them back on your brackets as soon as you are finished. The more they’re on, the better and quicker they can do their job.
Rubber bands can make your mouth a little sore when they’re added into the routine. No worries, your mouth will slowly get used to them like they did the braces. If you’re having a lot of pain problems, you can talk to your dental professional about some help in the pain relief department. Braces, in general, can cause some people to be in a lot of pain the entire time they have them on. There’s no shame in seeking a bit of relief to make it through the process effectively and more smoothly.
