There are a few different additional orthodontic tools that can be used in addition to braces during your orthodontic treatment. In this week’s blog, we will discuss the differences between springs and rubber bands.
What do Rubber Bands do?
Rubber bands are small clear or coloured bands that connect a top tooth with a lower tooth, or even two teeth on the upper or lower jaw. In some cases, like when fixing a cross bite, rubber bands can be attached in a cross formation across the mouth to encourage movement. Rubber bands are quite common when you receive braces treatment, but not everybody needs them. Your orthodontist will let you know if rubber bands are part of your treatment! They are generally used in a few different ways. They can correct jaw alignment, correct bites, and adjust tooth alignment.
Rubber bands are removable, so meal time can be a little easier with them. The success of rubber bands is entirely dependent on how dedicated a patient is. They must be worn day and night as directed by your orthodontist. Oftentimes braces wearers will choose not to wear them. This can slow down your process or lead to the installation of springs! Rubber bands are generally more comfortable to wear than springs are, so it’s important that they are worn as directed!
What do Springs do?
Springs are exactly what they sound like! They are small coils that can be attached to a top tooth and a bottom tooth. Instead of using rubber bands, springs will sometimes be used. Spring wear time can vary, but usually last about 4 to 6 months. They can correct jaw and tooth alignment, close spaces between teeth, and adjust spaces between teeth. Springs can be used instead of rubber bands for a couple reasons. Springs can add a little more pressure to the teeth, providing a quicker pace to achieve your goal. Sometimes, when the case is a little more severe, springs are preferred by orthodontists. Springs may also be used if a patient is not using their rubber bands. Springs cannot be removed. Therefore, if a patient forgets to put new bands in, or chooses not to, treatment can slow down. Springs will continue the treatment process as expected.
Sometimes springs will be used in preference to rubber bands in cases where jaw misalignment is a little more severe. They can add more pressure and guide the jaw into the correct position. Rubber bands can correct alignment, but generally springs are better for significant jaw alignment corrections.
Conclusion
Rubber bands and springs do similar adjustments, but whether you require one or the other depends on the severity of your case and the treatment plan outlined for you. If you need rubber bands, it’s important that you make sure you wear them all the time as directed! At Taft Hill Orthodontics, our team provides personalized orthodontic care to help patients achieve healthy, confident smiles. Whether you need traditional braces, rubber bands, or other orthodontic tools, we are here to guide you through every step of your treatment journey.
Are you interested in starting a braces journey? Book a consultation with us here!