Elastics, or rubber bands, are often an important part of orthodontic treatment. They supply the pressure needed to move teeth and jaws into their correct position. Therefore, to achieve the desired results, you must carefully follow the instructions you receive regarding their placement and use.

Any time missed in wearing your elastics will only make your treatment take longer, so remember these things:

1. You are responsible for placing the elastics on your braces between appointments. Be sure to wear them as instructed. Remove them only when brushing your teeth, gums and braces after meals. Then put them back on immediately.
   
   
2. Always carry a few elastics with you, so if one breaks you can replace it right away. If your supply is low, call the office. We can easily mail you some.
   
   
3. If you happen to forget to insert your elastics one day, don't double up the next - just follow your regular instructions.
   
   
4. Elastics get tired. When they lose their stretch, elastics don't provide the proper pressure on your teeth and jaws. So it is very important to change them as directed, even when they are not broken.

Elastics may cause your teeth to hurt a little at first. That's because the teeth are moving, which is our goal. Usually the tenderness lasts only a few days. Not wearing your elastics as instructed will only make the tenderness last longer, and tooth movement will require more time.

If you have any problems - like elastics breaking frequently, a wire or band loosening, or a hook breaking off - call the office immediately. Don't wait until your next scheduled appointment. These problems need to be corrected as soon as possible.

Remember, faithfully wearing your elastics, following all instructions, and keeping appointments is the quickest, easiest way to achieve our goal - a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles.

Home | Philosophy | Mission | Meet The Orthodontists | Locations Appliances | Smart Mouth Quiz | Orthodontic Update | Q & A Inquiries | Request An Appointment | General Information Links | Coming Events | E-mail Paul J. Batastini, D.D.S., Spec. Lic. 2417 Paul F. Batastini, D.M.D., Spec. Lic. 3672 Dr. Frank Batastini, M.B.A., D.M.D., Spec. Lic. 5089
3 Convenient Locations to Serve You:
69 Haddonfield-Berlin Rd. Cherry Hill, NJ 08034 Tel 856-428-1888 Fax 856-354-2081	1168 White Horse Pike Hammonton, NJ 08037 Tel 609-561-2424	1035 East Landis Ave. Vineland, NJ 08360 Tel 856-696-2600 Fax 856-696-1347