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Elastics play an important role in many Class II and III clear aligner cases by providing an anchor point to facilitate certain movements. Here’s what you need to know about using elastics for relevant ProMonitoring cases.
Buttons and slits
Bonded buttons are placed directly on the surface of specific teeth. Slits are small incisions in the aligners. Our manufacturing team builds slits into the aligners and creates cutouts for bonded buttons so you don’t have to.
Movements facilitated by elastics
Elastics enable certain movements in orthodontics. Here are a few common examples of how elastics may be used to move your patients’ teeth.
Elastic variables
There are a few different sizes and strengths of elastics. The force rating of elastics is determined by the ounces of force exerted when stretched to three times its size. The size of elastics is determined by their diameter at rest.
Choosing the right elastics
Most treatment plans that require elastics are compatible with a ¼” 4.5oz elastic. Measure the distance between each elastic anchor point and divide by three to ensure you’re choosing the right size.
Recommended elastics
ProMonitoring does not include elastics or buttons. You will need to order them yourself.
Patient education
Make sure to cover the following directives with your patients in detail before they begin treatment with elastics.
Wear schedule
In most cases, elastics should be worn for 22 hours per day at a minimum. You may recommend alternative wear schedules (e.g., nighttime-only wear) based on your clinical opinion on a case-by-case basis.
Replacing elastics
Patients should replace their elastics at least every 12–24 hours as they can quickly lose their strength. We recommend changing them every time the patient removes and reinserts their aligners.
Learning curve
Some patients may struggle with placing elastics at first. Have them practice with you in the office to build their confidence. Make sure they understand that their treatment hinges on wearing elastics as prescribed.
Find all this information on using elastics with ProMonitoring in our downloadable guide for doctors.
