In the final stages of orthodontic treatment, some patients may need to use inter-arch elastic bands. Inter-arch elastic bands are often used in the final stages of treatment. They are important orthodontic tools since they help patients retrain their bite and help the upper and lower jaws relate to one another in a more ideal way.
Traditional braces contain metal brackets; and, the elastic bands can connect to hooks that are attached to these brackets. If your dentist says you also need inter-arch elastics, you may be wondering if Invisalign can work with that aspect of treatment. Here are a few questions about elastic bands and Invisalign you may have.
How Can You Wear Elastic Bands with Invisalign Trays?
Because Invisalign trays are made of thermo-formed plastic, they do not initially contain the metal brackets to attach inter-arch elastics. However, this doesn't mean your elastic bands can't work with Invisalign trays. Your dentist can cement metal brackets or plastic "buttons" on the outside of your Invisalign trays which will then hold elastic bands. Dental laboratory technicians can also sometimes trim the clear aligners to have a hook shape on the outer edges so that the elastic bands have something to latch on to.
Can Elastics Be Used for Severe Malocclusions?
Because Invisalign trays can be adapted to elastic band usage, some patients may wonder if Invisalign trays can be adapted for patients with severe malocclusions. While Invisalign technology has come a long way and can correct a lot more issues in the past, other orthodontic treatments—like traditional braces—may still be better to widen the palate, correct severe overbites, etc. Again, elastic bands are used in the final stages of treatment, so they aren't meant to make large changes in movement—they are meant to reinforce and maintain corrections that should've already been made.
If You Need Elastic Bands on Your Invisalign Trays, How Do You Take Care of Them?
With traditional braces, you may need to remove elastic bands whenever you eat. With Invisalign trays, you not only need to remove the bands, but you need to temporarily remove your trays whenever you eat. Once you are done eating, then you need to clean your teeth, put your trays back in, and reconnect the bands to the buttons/brackets.
It may be tempting not to reattach the elastic bands, but it's important to wear them as directed so that you don't slow your treatment progress. It's also a good idea to change your elastic bands a couple of times a day so that they don't lose their elasticity, and therefore, their ability to correct your bite.
For more information on Invisalign and elastic bands, reach out to a company like Oak Ridge Dental Arts.
Share16 June 2020
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