In the process of orthodontic treatment, in addition to the well-known brackets and archwires, various rubber products play an irreplaceable role as important auxiliary tools. These seemingly simple rubber bands, rubber chains, and other products actually contain precise biomechanical principles and are “magical props” in the hands of orthodontists.
1、 Orthodontic rubber family: each performing its own duties as a “little helper”
Orthodontic rubber band (elastic band)
Diverse specifications: ranging from 1/8 inch to 5/16 inch
Animal series names: such as foxes, rabbits, penguins, etc., representing different levels of strength
Main purpose: Intermaxillary traction, adjusting bite relationship
Rubber Chain (Elastic Chain)
Continuous circular design
Application scenarios: Closing gaps, adjusting tooth positions
Latest progress: Pre stretching technology enhances durability
ligatures
Fix the archwire in the bracket groove
Rich colors: meet the personalized needs of teenagers
Innovative product: Self ligating design saves clinical time
2、 Scientific principle: The great role of small rubber bands
The working principle of these rubber products is based on the characteristics of elastic materials:
Provide sustained and gentle corrective power
The range of force values is usually between 50-300g
Following the principle of gradual biological movement
Just like boiling a frog in warm water, the gentle and sustained force provided by rubber products allows teeth to move to their ideal position unconsciously, “explained Professor Chen, director of the Orthodontics Department at Guangzhou Medical University Affiliated Stomatological Hospital.
3、 Clinical application scenarios
Deep coverage correction: use Class II traction rubber bands
Anti jaw treatment: combined with Class III traction
Midline adjustment: asymmetric traction scheme
Vertical control: special methods such as box traction
Clinical data shows that patients who use rubber bands correctly can improve correction efficiency by more than 30%.
4、 Precautions for use
Wearing time:
Suggested 20-22 hours per day
Remove only when eating and brushing teeth
Replacement frequency:
Usually replaced every 12-24 hours
Replace promptly after elastic attenuation
common problem:
Fracture: Replace the rubber band immediately with a new one
Lost: Maintaining Wearing Habits is the Most Important
Allergy: Very few patients require special materials
5、 Technological Innovation: Intelligent Upgrade of Rubber Products
Force indicator type: color changes with attenuation of force value
Long lasting and long-lasting: maintains elasticity for up to 72 hours
Biocompatible: Low allergenic material successfully developed
Environmentally friendly and biodegradable: responding to the concept of green healthcare
6、 Frequently Asked Questions for Patients
Q: Why does my rubber band always break?
A: Possible biting on hard objects or expired products, it is recommended to check the usage method
Q: Can I adjust the way I wear the rubber band myself?
A: Strict adherence to medical advice is necessary, unauthorized changes may affect the effectiveness of treatment
Q: What should I do if the rubber band has an odor?
A: Choose legitimate brand products and store them in a dry environment
7、 Market Status and Development Trends
At present, the domestic orthodontic rubber product market:
Annual growth rate of approximately 15%
The localization rate has reached 60%
High end products still rely on imports
Future development direction:
Intelligence: Force monitoring function
Personalization: 3D Printing Customization
Functionalization: Drug Release Design
8、 Professional advice: Small accessories should also be taken seriously
Special reminder from experts:
Strictly follow medical advice to wear
Maintain good usage habits
Pay attention to the shelf life of the product
If discomfort occurs, seek timely follow-up
These small rubber products may seem simple, but they are actually one of the key factors for successful orthodontic treatment, “emphasized Director Li of the Orthodontics Department at West China Stomatological Hospital in Chengdu.” The patient’s level of cooperation directly affects the final outcome
With the advancement of materials science, orthodontic rubber products are developing towards smarter, more precise, and more environmentally friendly directions. But no matter how innovative the technology is, doctor-patient cooperation is always the foundation for achieving ideal corrective effects. As industry experts have said, “No matter how good the rubber band is, it still requires the patient’s persistence to maximize its effectiveness
Post time: Jul-04-2025