Here at Shine Orthodontics, we know you may have wondered, What do rubber bands do for braces? After all, it’s 2022! Is it really necessary to fool with a bunch of moving parts like that?
Well, It turns out that Orthodontists aren’t just using any old rubber bands! Dr. McGrogan is an orthodontic expert, and she gave us a whole bunch of interesting info on the purpose, type, and function of orthodontic elastics (as they’re more properly referred to!). You don’t have to make an appointment to see us at our stylish downtown Holly Springs location to learn more. Just read on!
What is Orthodontic Elastic?
Orthodontic elastic refers to all of the rubber utilized by Dr. McGrogan in conjunction with the brackets and wires of traditional metal or ceramic braces. These can be broken into two distinct classes: Ligatures and Interarch Bands.
Both bands are essential to your or your child’s orthodontic treatment plan, and each has a particular role.
Ligatures – What are they? What do they do?
Ligatures are the most common type of orthodontic elastics used. Ligatures are the bands that fit in the spaces of the bracket itself and are used to hold the archwire in place at a consistent pressure. In fact, if you or your child has braces, whether traditional metal brackets or ceramic, those braces use ligatures.
Ligatures are installed by Dr. McGrogan during your appointment and don’t come off between visits. She’ll usually replace one or two per session as needed since they will be subject to wear and gradual loosening. She’ll perform the replacement with a unique tool known as a Mathieu Plier. A total removal and replacement of the ligatures will mark different phases of your treatment plan.
One fun extra with ligatures is that they can be ordered in custom colors! Just let Dr. McGrogan know, and she can deck you out in your favorite sports team’s colors, or maybe red and green for the holidays!
Interarch Bands – The Ons and Offs.
Interarch bands are what you may think of when you think of rubber bands for braces. These are removable bands attached to the brackets via a series of exterior hooks that run from the upper to the lower jaw.
Interarch bands aren’t always necessary. If you or your child suffers from an over or underbite, then interarch bands may be required to correct it. Dr. McGrogan will determine if they’re right for you based on a treatment plan developed with your best orthodontic outcomes in mind.
Dr. McGrogan can set the position of the interarch bands at specific points, depending on the type of bite problem. They are designed to be removed by the patient and should be taken out to brush and floss and, depending on direction, to eat.
These are an essential part of many treatment plans, and when used correctly, they can drastically reduce the time required to fix your or your child’s smile and bite!
Don’t Stretch Yourself! Call Us Today!
Now that you have the 411 on orthodontic elastics, call us today to schedule a free consultation! You’ll love our modern downtown office, and you can’t miss us since a portion of our clinic is lit up in our signature blue and yellow!
We can’t wait to introduce you to your best-looking smile! Call now!