Changing Bite Position with Elastics on Invisalign Braces: 3 Tips for Concealing the Elastics
Invisalign trays are becoming more popular than braces, as they are able to correct crooked teeth in a discrete manner. All you have to do is wear the trays given to you for anywhere from 20 to 22 hours each day. The trays are designed to correct improper teeth position. To correct improper bite position, your orthodontist will recommend installing elastic bands to the Invisalign trays. This is similar to the procedure used for regular braces. If you're concerned that the elastic bands might be noticeable, here are three things you can do.
Choose a Tooth-Colored Resin for Attaching the Elastic Bands
To attach the elastic bands onto the Invisalign trays, your orthodontist will have to apply and cure a dollop of tooth-colored resin on the surface of your teeth and underneath the trays. This attachment point is generally located near the ridgeline, so it's usually concealed when you smile. However, if you don't want to take any chances, you should really consider customizing the resin that is used for the attachment to match the natural color and shade of your teeth. Keep in mind that this resin cannot be bleached, so you'll want to match it to the shade and color of whitened teeth if you regularly get your teeth professionally whitened.
Find an orthodontist that is experienced in installing elastic bands for Invisalign trays. A steady hand is needed for precise application of the tooth-colored resin. You want to make sure that the orthodontist can secure the elastic bands needed using as little resin as possible.
Pick Elastic Bands that Closely Mimic Your Natural Tooth's Color
If you want the elastic bands to be barely noticeable, you should try to pick elastic bands that have the same or a similar color than that of your natural teeth. This is not the time to be fancy and choose brightly colored elastic bands, as bright colors will simply stand out like a sore thumb. If you can't find elastic bands that are of a similar color to your teeth's natural color, opt for nudes, as they are able to blend in with your teeth and oral tissues in a better manner. Light beige and even light mauve often go undetected.
Remember to purchase as many elastic bands as possible once you find bands of a suitable color. For the sake of your own comfort, you'll want to change the elastic bands responsible for correcting your bite position as often as possible.
Have the Orthodontist Try to Attach the Elastic Bands Underneath the Lips
Another common solution to hiding the elastic bands is to make a special request with your orthodontist to try to hide as much of the elastic bands as possible underneath your lips. Your orthodontist will want you to smile and make other facial expressions when they're installing the elastic bands for the Invisalign trays. This will allow them to get a good idea as to how your facial muscles move and where your lips lie when you smile naturally.
Adjustments can be made to ensure that as little of the elastic bands are showing as possible. Your orthodontist might even recommend moving the placement of the elastic bands if the same results can be ultimately achieved. The downside is that you might have to wear your Invisalign trays for a tad longer.
Conclusion
Thanks to the help of elastic bands, Invisalign trays can correct not only your teeth position but also your bite position. Due to the nature and positioning of the elastic bands, they tend to be a bit more noticeable. This might make the Invisalign trays easier to spot. Implement the tips mentioned in this article to hide the presence of the elastic bands as much as possible for aesthetic purposes.