elastics hurting lips - any tips?

[LaraS]

I've had elastics before, with no real problems, but a few weeks ago had new ones which are stronger and are also in a different position - the top hooks are nearer the front of my mouth than previously. I've really tried to persevere with them, but they seem to rub much more than before and I have to keep taking them out. I get nasty sores in the corners of my mouth, and my lips swell up so much that I look as if I have had a botched collagen injection(!). Any any ideas?

[Bracer215]

Hi LaraS
Not quite sure what kind of configuration you have but I also had sores from the rubber bands when they were worn in the triangle configuration toward the front of my mouth. While my mouth was getting used to them I used to stick cotton balls between the outer part of my teeth and my lip to lessen the abrasion. And as with many issues with orthadontia after about 2 weeks my mouth adjusted to the bands and the sores went away. After that initial shock I wore that elastic configuration for 10 months with no more sores. Good Luck

[LaraS]

Thanks for the reply, will try cotton wool balls, might help a bit.

[Bracer215]

Just had another thought. If your lips are swelling up maybe you are allergic to the latex. Ask your ortho if he has non latex elastics.