Orthodontics
Orthodontic elastics
Orthodontic elastics are small rubber bands that hook onto braces and apply extra pull to move teeth and improve how the upper and lower teeth fit.
Wires and brackets move individual teeth. Elastics add pull between the upper and lower teeth, which helps correct the bite. A paper in the NIH library says that during different phases of orthodontic treatment, small elastics or rubber bands are used to generate a continuous force that moves individual teeth. You change them as directed, often every day, and you wear them all day. If you skip them, treatment takes longer. Use only the type and the pattern your care team gives you. Never move them around on your own, because elastics that slip below the gum line can harm the gums. Call right away if you notice swelling or a loose tooth. See braces and orthodontics.