Elastics

[ozman]

Just got elastics, why am I in so much pain ??

[Sunny]

Elastics put a different pressure on your teeth to what you've been having with just the archwire doing the work. Make sure you wear them as directed, as usually the more they're worn the quicker the person adjust.

Also drink a bit more water, as a dry mouth will result in the elastics rubbing and you feeling even more uncomfortable. Also the warm salt water rinses are great for soothing a sore mouth!

Good luck!

[Braced]

I have elastics for a crossbite. My teeth were a little tender for about a day, but then they felt fine. You definitely want to wear them as directed because you want to stop wearing them as soon as possible. I take mine off only when I eat, because it's impossible to not swallow them (I find anyway). I wore them for about 4 weeks in between appointments and my ortho was very happy with the progress my teeth have made, so that reinforced my compliance with them. Good luck!!

[lightskinnnn38]

I have elastics for an overbite and I wear them 24/7 and take them out only when I eat and brush my teeth. The pain was awful in the first two days because I had elastics AND a power chain at the same time. Yikes. But they have moved my teeth SO fast!

I have an adjustment in 2 weeks so I'm looking forward to what they will say about my progress!