Summary
- Orthodontic elastics (rubber bands) and ligatures (small bands or wires) are crucial yet often overlooked components of braces.
- Ligatures secure the arch wire to each bracket, ensuring consistent pressure for tooth alignment.
- Elastics apply targeted force between the upper and lower jaws to correct bite issues like overbites and underbites.
- Used together, these tools enhance the efficiency and precision of orthodontic treatment. For optimal results, patients should wear and replace them as directed.
When people think of braces, they often focus on the brackets and wires. But tiny components like elastics and ligatures play key roles in moving your teeth and aligning your bite.
These components may be small, but their impact on your treatment may be significant. Understanding the purpose of elastics in orthodontics (and ligatures as well) can help you stay informed and proactive.
First Things First: What Are Orthodontic Elastics and Ligatures?
- Orthodontic ligatures are small bands (either elastic or wire) that hold the arch wire to each bracket on your teeth. They come in various colors or clear for a more discreet look.
- Orthodontic elastics, also known as rubber bands, are larger. They are used to connect brackets from your upper and lower teeth to help align the bite.
Though both are sometimes referred to as “rubber bands”. But they serve different functions and are not interchangeable.
How Do Elastics Work?
Elastics apply targeted, continuous pressure between the upper and lower jaws. They are often attached from hooks on the brackets of one arch (usually top molars) to the opposite arch (such as bottom canines). This pressure encourages jaw movement and correction of bite misalignments.
Common bite issues that may be corrected by elastics:
Elastics are usually introduced partway through treatment and must be worn as prescribed for optimal results.
Common bite issues that may be corrected by elastics:
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Crossbite
- Open bite
Elastics are usually introduced partway through treatment and must be worn as prescribed for optimal results.
How Do Ligatures Work?
Ligatures secure the arch wire to the brackets. This is essential because the arch wire is the main mechanism that guides your teeth into alignment.
Ligatures may be replaced at different orthodontic visits to ensure optimal tension and cleanliness. You can choose colorful ligatures for a fun twist or clear ones for a subtle appearance.
Ligatures may be replaced at different orthodontic visits to ensure optimal tension and cleanliness. You can choose colorful ligatures for a fun twist or clear ones for a subtle appearance.
Purposes Of Elastics Bands And Ligatures
Securing the Arch wire and Applying Continuous Force
Both ligatures and elastic bands work to hold the arch wire firmly in each bracket slot. By keeping the wire engaged, they maintain the consistent pressure needed to guide teeth along the planned path. Elastics add an extra layer of force when wrapped around brackets in specific configurations.
Facilitating Complex Tooth Movements
Wire ligatures can be twisted or looped to deliver targeted rotation or tipping of individual teeth. In tandem, inter arch elastics correct bite discrepancies.
Closing Spaces and Adjusting Arch Dimensions
Power chains (a series of connected elastic ligatures) deliver greater contraction force to draw teeth together and eliminate gaps. Single elastics, meanwhile, can be configured in triangular or diagonal patterns to help adjust arch width.
Enhancing Comfort and Aesthetic Options
Modern elastic materials are designed for flexibility and patient comfort, reducing irritation while still delivering effective force. Ligatures now come in a spectrum of colors for personalization or a more discreet look.
Types of Elastics:
- Class I: Intra-arch elastics are used to close gaps within a single arch.
- Class II: Connect the upper front teeth to the lower back teeth to correct overbite.
- Class III: Connect the lower front teeth to the upper back teeth to correct underbite.
- Crossbite elastics: Adjust lateral alignment.
- Vertical elastics: Help correct open bites.
- Triangle elastics: Often used for fine-tuning occlusion near the end of treatment.
- Material: Most are made of medical-grade latex; latex-free options are also available
Types of Ligatures:
- Single Elastic Ligatures: Small rubber bands are used on each bracket.
- Power Chains: A series of connected elastic ligatures for space closure.
- Wire Ligatures: Thin metal ties used for a stronger hold and precise tooth control.
Summary Table: Ligatures vs. Elastics
| Feature | Ligatures | Elastics |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Hold the arch wire to the bracket | Adjust bite/jaw alignment |
| Size | Small | Larger |
| Position | Around each bracket | Hooked between the upper & lower brackets |
| Materials | Rubber or metal | Medical-grade latex or latex-free |
| Replaced | Every appointment | Daily or as instructed |
| Common Types | Single, power chains, wire ligatures | Class I, II, III, triangle, vertical |
| Customizability | Color options available | Limited customization |
Braces and Clear Aligners in the San Francisco Bay Area
At Image Orthodontics, we offer a full range of orthodontic treatments. We offer customized treatment plans, with traditional braces, self-ligating braces, or clear aligners.
Our team of board-certified orthodontists are available at several locations across San Francisco Bay Area, including:
You can see all of our locations here.
Schedule a consultation today to see which treatment is right for you.
Our team of board-certified orthodontists are available at several locations across San Francisco Bay Area, including:
- San Francisco Post Street
- San Francisco Pacific Heights
- San Francisco Mission District
- Oakland
- San Jose Berryessa
You can see all of our locations here.
Schedule a consultation today to see which treatment is right for you.
Conclusion
Elastics and ligatures play powerful roles in achieving a healthy smile. Ligatures help move your teeth, and elastics help align your bite. Used correctly and consistently, they support your orthodontist’s treatment goals and keep your smile on track.
If you ever have questions about your braces, don’t hesitate to contact our office. Our team is here to support your journey every step of the way.
If you ever have questions about your braces, don’t hesitate to contact our office. Our team is here to support your journey every step of the way.
Image Orthodontics
Frequently Asked Questions
Are ligatures and orthodontic elastics the same?
No. Ligatures hold the arch wire to the brackets. Orthodontic elastics help correct bite and jaw alignment by connecting the upper and lower teeth.
What do orthodontic elastics do?
Elastics apply specific pressure to reposition the jaw and correct bite issues such as overbites, underbites, and crossbites.
How do orthodontic ligatures work?
Orthodontic ligatures secure the arch wire in place. That ensures that the wire can properly apply tension to shift your teeth into alignment.
Can you eat and drink with rubber bands on braces?
Yes, but it's best to remove them while eating and replace them afterward. Always follow your orthodontist's instructions for wear time and hygiene.
What is the main purpose of ligatures?
The main function of ligatures is to keep the arch wire attached to the brackets. That allows it to exert continuous pressure to guide teeth into their correct positions.
This content is for informational purposes only. Consult a professional for personal advice.
