Orthodontic treatment is an important aspect of dental care, especially for people who have crooked teeth and bite problems. It involves the use of various equipment and materials, including elastics, to achieve desired results. However, some people may have allergies or sensitivities to latex, which is commonly used in orthodontic elastics. Fortunately, non-latex orthodontic elastics are now available. In this blog post, we will explore what non-latex orthodontic elastics are made of, their benefits, and their use in orthodontic treatment.
What are non-latex orthodontic elastics made of?
Non-latex orthodontic elastics are made from a hypoallergenic, synthetic material, which is a good alternative to latex. Some of the common materials used include polyurethane, polyester, and polyethylene. Each of these materials has different properties and characteristics that make them suitable for use in orthodontic elastics.
Polyurethane is a popular material used in non-latex orthodontic elastics because of its durability and resistance to degradation. It is also highly elastic and can be stretched to a certain point without breaking or losing its shape. Polyurethane is also resistant to discoloration and deformation, making it an ideal material for orthodontic elastics.
Polyester is another synthetic material used in non-latex orthodontic elastics. It is known for its strength, durability, and resistance to moisture. Polyester is also resistant to fading, and this makes it an ideal material for orthodontic elastics that need to remain visible for a long period.
Polyethylene is a flexible, lightweight, and odorless material that is commonly used in non-latex orthodontic elastics. It is resistant to chemicals, moisture, and abrasion, making it suitable for use in the mouth. Polyethylene is also resistant to UV light, which means that it won’t break down when exposed to sunlight, making it an ideal material for outdoor use.
Benefits of non-latex orthodontic elastics
Non-latex orthodontic elastics have several benefits over their latex counterparts. One of the main benefits is that they are hypoallergenic, which means that they do not cause allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to latex. This makes them an ideal choice for patients who have had a previous allergic reaction to latex or those who have a known latex allergy.
Non-latex orthodontic elastics also offer better durability and longevity when compared to latex. Unlike latex, which tends to degrade over time, synthetic materials like polyurethane and polyester retain their elasticity and shape for longer periods. This means that they do not need to be replaced as often, reducing the number of appointments needed for orthodontic treatment.
Another benefit of non-latex orthodontic elastics is that they come in a variety of colors and sizes, which allows orthodontic patients to express their individuality and personal style. Patients can choose from a wide range of colors, including transparent, to match their teeth or opt for brightly colored elastics to make a fashion statement.
Use of non-latex orthodontic elastics in orthodontic treatment
Non-latex orthodontic elastics are used during various stages of orthodontic treatment. They are often used to help move teeth into their correct position and correct bite problems. Orthodontic elastics can be used in various ways, including connecting the top and bottom teeth to fix an overbite or underbite or to close gaps between teeth.
Orthodontic elastics can also be used to correct a cross-bite, a condition where one or more upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth instead of outside them. In this case, elastics are used to pull the upper teeth back to their correct position. Non-latex orthodontic elastics are an excellent choice for children and adult patients who require orthodontic treatment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, non-latex orthodontic elastics are made of hypoallergenic synthetic materials like polyurethane, polyester, and polyethylene. These materials offer several benefits, including hypoallergenic properties, durability and longevity, and a wide range of colors and sizes. They are commonly used in orthodontic treatment to move teeth into their correct position and correct bite problems. Patients who are sensitive to latex or have a known latex allergy should opt for non-latex orthodontic elastics during their orthodontic treatment.
FAQ
Are non latex rubber bands stronger?
Rubber bands are a common orthodontic tool used to align teeth and correct bite issues. In recent years, non-latex rubber bands have gained popularity as an alternative to traditional latex bands. However, the question remains: are non-latex rubber bands stronger than their latex counterparts?
A study conducted by Kersey et al 4 aimed to answer this question by comparing the strength of latex and non-latex elastics from a single manufacturer, American Orthodontics. The study found that latex elastics maintained higher strength levels over 24 hours, retaining 83% of initial strength, compared to 69% retained by non-latex elastics. This suggests that in terms of strength retention, latex bands are superior to non-latex bands.
However, it is important to note that not all non-latex rubber bands are the same. There are various materials used to make non-latex bands, such as silicone and polyurethane. Each material has different properties that may affect their strength and durability. For example, some studies have found that silicone bands have higher elongation at break than latex bands, meaning they can stretch further before breaking 1. This could make them more resistant to breakage under force, but may also make them weaker when used for orthodontic purposes.
Furthermore, the strength of rubber bands also depends on their size and thickness. Thicker bands will generally be stronger than thinner bands, regardless of whether they are made of latex or non-latex materials. The size and thickness of the band required for treatment will depend on the individual patient and the specific orthodontic issue being addressed.
While the study by Kersey et al 4 suggests that latex rubber bands maintain higher strength levels than non-latex bands from a single manufacturer, it is important to note that not all non-latex bands are created equal. The material used and the size and thickness of the band will all play a role in determining its strength and suitability for orthodontic treatment. it is up to the orthodontist to determine the best type of band to use for each individual patient.
Are rubber bands made of silicone?
Rubber bands are stretchable loops made of elastic materials that are commonly used to hold items together or to bundle them. While the term “rubber band” implies that they are made entirely of rubber, that is not always the case. In fact, elastic bands can be made from various materials such as natural or synthetic rubber, latex, neoprene, or silicone.
Silicone is a synthetic compound that is used in a variety of applications, including medical, automotive, and consumer products. As a polymer, it can be engineered to have different physical properties depending on its intended use. Some of the characteristics that make silicone an excellent material for making rubber bands are its elasticity, durability, and resistance to extreme temperatures and environmental conditions.
Silicone rubber bands are similar in appearance to traditional rubber bands, but they have some distinct advantages. For example, silicone rubber bands do not degrade or deteriorate over time as rubber bands do, so they last longer. They are also hypoallergenic, which makes them ideal for medical or food-related applications.
Moreover, silicone rubber bands can be produced in a variety of colors and sizes to suit different needs. They can be used as a fashion accessory, for example, as a substitute for metal bracelets, or as a marketing tool with customized logos or slogans. Silicone rubber bands are also popular among athletes and fitness enthusiasts as wristbands to track heart rate, distance, or calories burned during workouts.
While traditional rubber bands are often made from natural rubber or latex, silicone rubber bands offer an alternative that has unique characteristics. Whether for industrial or domestic use, silicone rubber bands are a versatile and reliable solution that meets the demands of modern applications.
Are there different types of rubber bands for braces?
Yes, there are several types of rubber bands that can be used with braces. These rubber bands are also called elastic bands, and they work to apply extra pressure and tension on the braces to help move the teeth into their correct position.
One of the most common types of rubber bands used for braces is the triangle rubber band. These are named as such for their triangular shape. Triangle rubber bands are commonly used in cases where the orthodontist is trying to close a gap between two teeth or to rotate a tooth that has shifted out of position.
Another type of rubber band used for braces is the class 2 elastic. These elastics work to correct an underbite, which is where the lower jaw is situated farther back than it should be in relation to the upper jaw. Conversely, class 3 elastics are used to correct an overbite, which is when the upper jaw extends too far past the lower jaw.
Cross elastics are another type of elastic used for braces. These these bands are used to correct bite issues that may occur when the jaws don’t meet up properly; such issues can include crossbites, deep bites, and open bites.
Anterior elastics can be used when a patient has an issue with their front teeth. These bands work to realign the upper and lower front teeth, typically to address a gap or spacing issue.
Orthodontists may also use Box rubber bands, which are a combination of different elastics. Box elastics offer a variety of different uses, such as closing gaps, correcting underbites and overbites, and helping to move teeth into their desired position.
Interarch rubber bands and open bite elastics are typically used to correct issues related to jaw alignment. Finally, ligature and elastic separators are small bands that are placed around each bracket; these bands are used to help secure the archwire in place.
It’s worth pointing out that not everyone who has braces will use elastic bands. The use of rubber bands with braces will depend on each patient’s individual orthodontic needs. Orthodontists will determine which type of bands are appropriate for each patient’s specific treatment plan.
