1. Product definition and classification system
Orthodontic elastic chains are continuous elastic devices made of medical-grade latex or synthetic rubber. According to the international standard ISO 21607, they can be divided into three categories:
1. Classification by size: 9 standard specifications ranging from 1/8″ to 5/16″
2. Graded by strength: light (3.5oz), medium (4.5oz), strong (6oz)
3. Classified by structure: closed type (O-type), open type (C-type), and gradual transition type
2. Principle of mechanical action
Stress relaxation characteristics: The force value decays by 15-20% after 24 hours of use
Tensile-force curve: nonlinear relationship (modified Hooke’s law model)
Temperature sensitivity: force fluctuation of ±10% in the oral environment
3. Clinical selection strategy
Fine adjustment of anterior teeth area
Recommended size: 1/8″-3/16″
Advantages: Precise control of movement direction (with an accuracy of 0.1mm)
Case: Torque correction of central incisor
Extraction space management
Best choice: 3/16″-1/4″ enclosed type
Mechanical characteristics: continuous light force (80-120g)
Data: On average, a 1.5-2mm gap is closed each month
Intermaxillary relationship correction
Class II traction: 1/4″ (upper jaw 3→lower jaw 6)
Class III traction: 5/16″ (upper jaw 6→lower jaw 3)
Note: It needs to be used in conjunction with a flat guide plate
4. Special function models
Gradient force value chain
150g for the front section / 80g for the back section
Application: Differential tooth movement
Advantages: Avoiding loss of anchorage
Color identification type
Intensity grading color code (blue – light / red – heavy)
Clinical value: intuitive recognition
Patient compliance has increased by 30%
Antibacterial coating model
Chlorhexidine-containing microcapsules
Reduce the incidence of gingivitis
It is particularly suitable for patients with periodontal disease
5. Precautions for Use
Mechanical Management
Avoid excessive stretching (≤300% of the limit)
Intermaxillary traction should be worn for ≥20 hours per day
Regular force value testing (calibration of dynamometer)
Hygiene maintenance
Remove the stain-proof cover when eating
Daily disinfection with alcohol swabs
Avoid contact with essential oils
Prevention of complications
Temporomandibular joint discomfort (incidence rate 8%)
Localized gingival hyperplasia (incidence rate 5%)
Risk of root resorption (monitoring with CBCT)
6. Development of cutting-edge technologies
Intelligent sensing chain
Built-in RFID force value chip
Bluetooth data transmission
Clinical application: Invisible orthodontic assistance
Biodegradable
Polycaprolactone material
Automatically degrades within 4-6 weeks
Significant environmental advantages
4D printing technology
Dynamic force value adjustment
Case: Orthodontic treatment before orthognathic surgery
Accuracy improved by 40%
The elaatic, as the “mechanical language” of orthodontists, directly determines the quality of tooth movement through its size selection. By achieving precise size-force matching and utilizing modern digital monitoring technology, the efficiency of orthodontic treatment can be increased by over 30%, while significantly reducing the risk of complications. In the future, with the application of smart materials, this classic device will continue to gain new vitality.
Post time: Jul-25-2025