Orthodontics is a special field of dentistry that combines several disciplines, including dental science, medical and cosmetic approaches, and patient care. The purpose of this field is to improve the health of their patients and create perfect smiles.
Orthodontics and dentistry are not the same. Albany Orthodontics focuses on improving oral health through the movement of teeth and oral structures. Not every mouth requires orthodontic treatment, though we all require dental care.
When a dental patient needs orthodontic intervention is most likely because they have some class of dental malocclusion, whether it is mild or severe.
However, this discipline can face several challenges and intricacies. Let’s explore this further:
Biomechanics of the Tooth Movement:
Albany Orthodontists must understand the complex principles of tooth movement in order to create an orthodontic treatment plan that can address all the patient’s dental issues.
Interdisciplinary Approaches
To completely address certain issues, orthodontists need to collaborate with other dental specialists like oral surgeons or periodontists.
Technological Advancements
Advancements in technology have improved the accuracy and efficiency of orthodontic treatments through several features like digital imaging and 3D printing.
Functions of Braces Rubber Bands
People also know them as elastics bands; these small appliances work in conjunction with traditional braces to apply additional pressure to the teeth and jaws. If you are wondering what orthodontic rubber bands do for braces, here’s a small guide:
Enhance Bite Function:
Orthodontists use these appliances to fix the jaw alignment, achieving proper position between upper teeth and lower teeth. As a consequence, the treatment enhances the functions of the mouth, which can include speech abilities.
Improve Braces Treatment:
Elastic bands allow orthodontists more control over the forces and tooth movements, which can help achieve more precise results. This is why dental professionals usually combine braces with orthodontic rubber bands.
Aligning Teeth:
In order to achieve a more harmonious and functional bite, these appliances can help with certain tooth movements, such as closing space between teeth or rotating teeth to their correct position.
Reducing Treatment Time:
Since elastic bands can accelerate tooth movement, they can be really useful when it comes to reducing the duration of the treatment.
When Is the Right Time To Start Wearing Rubber Bands?
Since every case is different, the orthodontist will decide when is the right time for you to start using orthodontic rubber bands. However, here are some estimated times based on the complexity of the dental issues:
Moderate Issues:
Patients who suffer from mild to moderate dental problems may start to wear rubber bands later in the treatment. First, the orthodontist will assess the situation, and maybe they would determine that the patient must wear rubber bands in the last 6 months of the treatment.
Severe Issues:
Severe cases of malocclusion could mean that the patient needs to start with rubber bands early in the treatment or shortly after the braces. This could happen 4 or 6 months into the treatment.
In difficult cases, conventional orthodontic treatments may not be sufficient to address all the dental issues of a patient. This is when orthodontists introduce appliances such as Braces and Rubber Bands that will exert extra pressure and help achieve proper alignment of the teeth.
Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene during Orthodontics
Whether you are using orthodontic treatment or not, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for the health of your teeth and gums. In addition, it will help you achieve your desired smile and reduce the potential risks of getting cavities or other dental issues. Follow these tips to help maintain good oral hygiene during treatment with braces:
1. Brush your Teeth After Every Meal:
We recommend brushing your teeth after every meal. Make sure to clean all tooth surfaces, especially around the brackets and wires. Use a toothpaste with fluoride.
2. Use Mouthwash:
If you want to strengthen your tooth, you can rinse your mouth with mouthwash after your brush your teeth.
3. Floss Every Day:
Flossing your teeth can help you to remove residues of food and plaque between the teeth and around the braces. You should do it at least once a day. Flossing also contributes to gum health and stimulation, preventing gum disease.
5. Change Rubber Bands:
If you are wearing rubber bands, then it is recommendable that you change them, usually between meals and after brushing your teeth.
Got Questions About Orthodontic Rubber Bands?
Elastics can be a delicate appliance, and after reading all this information, you still might have questions about rubber bands, like, are you allowed to eat with rubber bands on your braces? Or is it dangerous to swallow an orthodontic elastic band?
Well, we encourage you to consult with our orthodontists because they will address all your concerns and provide professional advice to your specific needs.
The team of Estes Orthodontics works hard to answer all of their patients’ concerns and create an orthodontic treatment that perfectly suits their goals. Don’t hesitate and ask for an appointment with Dr. Estes!
