Description
Dr. Kellyn W. Hodges describes different types of orthodontic rubber bands. These orthodontic rubber bands connect the upper and lower arches and correct underbite, overbite, and lower jaw protusion. These rubber bands gently shift the jaws and teeth into proper alignment.
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There are different kinds of rubber bands, and today we're going to look at
Class 2 rubber bands. Used in cases where there is excessive overbite, or
over jet. They clip from the upper canines to the lower molars. Patients
can use just their hands, or they can use a small tool that aids them in
hooking the rubber bands. It goes from the lower molar to the upper canine.
They should be worn 24 hours a day, except when eating and brushing.
Immediately after eating or brushing, they should be replaced.
Class 3 elastics are used in cases where there is an under bite, or there
is a lower jaw protrusion. These rubber bands hook from the upper molars to
the lower canines. Patients can use just their hands, or they can use a
small tool that aids them in hooking the rubber bands. Again, they go from
the lower canines to the upper molars. They exert a force that's pulling
the lower teeth back up and under the upper teeth. They are to be worn 24
hours a day, except eating and brushing. Immediately after eating and
brushing, they should be reinserted.
These are called triangular elastics. They are very commonly used to finish
cases. They go from the upper canine, to the lower canine, to the lower pre
molar. Their function is to close down bites. They form the shape of a
triangle. Again, they go from the upper canine, to the lower canine, to the
lower pre molar.
