Metal braces use metal wires and brackets to adjust and align the teeth gradually. Elastic bands are sometimes added to particular brackets to apply more pressure to certain parts of the mouth. Invisalign with rubber bands is a popular method for correcting bite issues and achieving a perfect smile.
A more covert alternative to conventional braces is Invisalign. It employs translucent plastic aligner trays that fit over your teeth to remodel your smile. Your orthodontist will likely suggest replacing your Invisalign aligner once every seven days or every other week.
Additionally, they may recommend wearing rubber bands in conjunction with the Invisalign aligner. Similar to how they do with conventional braces, these elastics assist in applying force to particular areas of your mouth.
Find out what kinds of problems rubber bands may be used to treat and when your orthodontist might urge you to use them with Invisalign braces.
Why are Invisalign elastics used?
While not altering how your upper and lower teeth connect, the following appliances can help you straighten your teeth:
- Invisalign.
- Other transparent aligners.
- Common braces.
Conversely, the elastic components of rubber bands exert pressure on your teeth in particular directions to treat bite issues such as an overbite or underbite. The type of orthodontic treatment you receive will determine the elastics’ arrangement.
Rubber bands for overbite in Invisalign
Overbite or overjet, sometimes called “class II malocclusion,” is the most typical form of bite issue that Invisalign treats.
When the last teeth in your lower jaw are positioned further back in your mouth than the final teeth in your upper jaw, you have an overbite. Your upper jaw projects forward as a result of this alignment issue.
Invisalign proved helpful in treating overbites in a sample of 120 people with an average age of 33, according to a 2017 research.
Invisalign is a treatment that utilizes a series of elastic bands that connect your upper and lower teeth, which can be used to correct an overbite. Specifically, these elastics will stretch between your upper canine teeth (the two pointy teeth on the sides of your mouth).
Underbite Invisalign rubber bands
You have an underbite when your bottom first tooth moves forward relative to your top first molar.
A 2016 case study demonstrated the effective use of Invisalign to cure a slight overbite.
Using rubber bands connecting your top back molar to your lower canines, Invisalign can correct an underbite.
Rubber bands for Invisalign to treat open anterior bites
When you close your mouth, the front upper and lower teeth are tilted outward and have an anterior open bite. Using elastics that link your top and bottom front teeth, you can use Invisalign to correct this bite.
A brief 2017 evaluation of the literature revealed that Invisalign could be useful for treating people with minor open bites.
Rubber bands for Invisalign to protect the bite
Vertical elastics can be used once you have found the optimal bite. To assist you in maintaining the alignment of your teeth, these rubber bands fasten to the same tooth at the top and bottom of your mouth.
Also Read: What Causes Jagged Teeth in Kids and Adults?
Does every Invisalign patient require elastic bands?
Not every Invisalign patient will require elastics. You might not require elastics if the issue you’re trying to fix is comparatively modest, such as moderately crowded teeth or little gaps between your teeth.
Elastics may be necessary if the top and bottom teeth aren’t aligned properly, such as an overbite or underbite.
How visible are the bands and buttons?
Because Invisalign braces are more covert than regular braces, many individuals choose to have them. Depending on what part of your mouth needs them, adding elastics and Invisalign buttons may make them more obvious.
“PORTH Personalized Orthodontics” states that buttons are small adhesive pieces placed on the teeth, which help secure elastic bands. They often blend in with your teeth in color and are barely discernible, especially if they are towards the rear of your mouth.
Typically, elastic bands stand out more than buttons. The elastics will be easier to see if you need them close to the front of your lips instead of the rear. Compared to other hues, clear elastics will be less obvious.
Discussing your expectations with your orthodontist in advance is good if you’re worried that your Invisalign treatment will stand out.
How to put on the rubber bands for Invisalign
Beginning to put on your elastics correctly might be challenging. But it ought to grow simpler as you get expertise.
Here are two methods for applying your rubber bands; however, your orthodontist may give you more detailed instructions.
Method 1
- Remove your Invisalign aligners from your mouth, then position the top and bottom trays in your hands in a straight line.
- Locate the hooks on the upper and lower aligners, and attach an elastic to each one.
- Hold the aligners in a sandwich-like fashion. Keep the elastics taut when you place the aligners in your mouth.
Method 2
Use this technique if you’re using buttons to secure your elastics.
- Remove the lower aligner from your mouth.
- Choose the correct hooks for your elastics. As you reposition the aligner in your mouth, maintain tension on the elastics with your fingers.
- Take hold of an elastic and direct it toward the button on your top tooth. Repeat on the opposite side after you’ve snapped it into place.
Prodentim
ProDentim™ is an exclusive formula that promotes oral health by replenishing your mouth with 3.5 billion beneficial bacteria.
- ProDentim restores healthy bacteria in the mouth by combining nutrients and probiotics.
- The supplement is absorbed into the gums, addressing the underlying source of dental health problems.
- The ingredients in ProDentim promote oral hygiene and treat many oral health concerns.
- It also helps the liver and heart, detoxifies the colon, and boosts immunity.
- ProDentim is entirely natural and has no adverse effects.
- When used daily, it promotes healthy teeth and gums and reduces pain, inflammation, and foul breath.
What should you do if a hook or button falls off?
When you chew food or brush your teeth, your hooks might emerge. Sometimes they may come off simply because insufficient bonding substance holds them to the tooth.
You shouldn’t try to repair a button yourself if it comes off. The button should be kept securely and brought to your orthodontist. It’s best if you can spot them right away. Waiting could postpone treatment.
How to take care of your mouth while wearing hook-and-rubber-band aligners
Replacing your elastics is crucial since they will gradually lose their flexibility. According to your orthodontist, two to four times a day could be the recommended amount.
It is preferable to wear your old elastics than nothing if you are leaving the house and need new ones.
- Maintaining your Invisalign trays clean is crucial, even though you’ll replace them frequently. It is important to keep your teeth and Invisalign aligners clean and healthy.
- A recommended routine is to rinse the aligners with water each night.
- Any food debris adhered to your trays may be removed with a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild liquid detergent.
- Protect your aligners by storing them in their case.
- Avoid using strong cleaning agents on your trays, like toothpaste, mouthwash, scented soap, or denture cleanser.
- When eating, remove your elastics and aligners.
- When your aligners are in, limit your drinking to water only.
- Avoid using hot water to clean your trays.
- Take care of your teeth and gums normally, but be aware of foreign objects that could have been accidentally swallowed. To avoid any potential damage, use a soft-bristled toothbrush when brushing.
Conclusion
Your orthodontist may suggest rubber bands to use alongside Invisalign treatment. These elastics, like braces, can help align your upper and lower teeth and address problems such as overbite or underbite.
When wearing your elastics, it’s crucial to heed your orthodontist’s recommendations. If you don’t adhere to their recommendations, your therapy can take longer, or you might not receive the desired outcomes.
