Why are Rubber Bands Used with Braces?

Rubber bands are an important part of the braces process, and unfortunately, it is also one of the most neglected steps among patients in some instances. By gaining a clearer idea as to the role that rubber bands play, you can fully understand why exactly they are so important.

An overview of rubber bands for braces

In addition to improving the alignment of teeth, braces are designed to also improve the alignment of the jaw and improve a person’s bite pattern, which rubber bands assist in doing. The following is a complete overview of the role that rubber bands play in the braces treatment process.

How the braces process works

To fully understand the role that interach elastics play, otherwise referred to as rubber bands, it is important to know how the braces process works. Almost everyone who has misaligned teeth or a misalignment of the jaw can benefit from braces treatment. Braces are offered by an orthodontist after the patient goes through an initial consultation, during which the orthodontist can conduct an oral examination and determine the best way to go about treatment. Once treatment begins, the interarch elastics may be worn in order to help with the realignment of the jaw and teeth.

The purpose of interarch elastics

The majority of people who receive braces, especially those who go through treatment during adolescence, are required by their orthodontist to wear what is known as interarch elastics.

These interarch elastics, or rubber bands, are designed primarily to help move the jaw into a more well-aligned position, which helps fix any bite complication that exists, such as an overbite or underbite. The rubber bands essentially need to be worn for the majority of the day, although they must be removed while eating or during one’s oral care routine. There are some instances where interarch elastics may not be needed, but more times than not, they are a part of the treatment process.

Tips for wearing rubber bands with braces

Interarch elastics do not cause much discomfort after the patient gets used to them, but they can be difficult to keep up with and all too many patients do not wear them as often as they should. However, following these useful tips for wearing rubber bands with braces, ensuring you do not forget to do so becomes much easier:

• Practice putting them on
• Make them easily accessible
• Replace them often
• Pick a color you like

The more comfortable the patient is putting them on and taking them off, the less of an issue they are going to be to wear. Subsequently, be sure to practice putting them on and become a pro at doing so. In addition, it can be helpful to have a designated spot to keep the rubber bands and make it a habit to bring them with you everywhere you go.

Talk to an orthodontist about braces

If you are interested in learning more about the braces process, then consult with us and schedule a time to come in for your first visit. We can guide you through the entire braces treatment procedure, answering any questions you may have along the way to a better smile.

Request an appointment here: or call Gilroy Dental Associates at (408) 842-2818 for an appointment in our Gilroy office.

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