Metal Mouth Message Board

Hey guys. I have a little problem... i dont think my elastics are working. I change them every 24 hours and as the day goes by they get thinner due to the stretch. However for the past few days they have remained thicker and not thinned at all. I haven't seen progress in my teeth either. This might seem like a stupid question, but i dont think the elastics are working.. any advice?

You only change them every 24 hours? I've been wearing elastics for the past 10 months, and my Ortho told me to change them about 3 times a day; but to tell you the truth, I probably change them about 4 times a day. I get 4 bags every 6 or 7 weeks, but usually only use 3 bags. Anyway, they work for me, I'm on them for a slight open bite and they worked great.

It has taken me 6 months in elastics to move my upper arch just 3 1/2 mm. Elastics don't work fast...how long have you had them?

Also, don't judge whether they're working on how thin the elastics are getting. Let your ortho decide if they are working.

I change mine 3 to 4 times a day.

Keep on using them!!!!!!!

Some people replace elastics only once daily, others more often than that. I replace elastics 3 times daily after meals. In addition to full time wear of box elastics, I add triangle elastics at the front at night, so I go through 8 a day. They have worked nicely for me.

Thanks guys. Ive been wearing them since i can remember the exact date 4th july 06. My ortho told me to change them once every 24 hours. My next appointment is on the 28th of november so im going to ask then if the probelm is not resolved. thanks again!