Do the Rubber Bands and Invisalign Work for Correcting the Bite?

Rubber band usage with Invisalign® is not new, but is complex.  For this reason, Orthodontists or general dentists with lots of experience should be the only ones taking on a case like this.

Principles for moving teeth are the same, whether with clear aligners or with brackets and wires.  Forces are put on teeth and they move.  Invisalign works best on pushing forces, so while elastics CAN work, they will make the case take longer.

Yes. If worn properly and monitored by an
orthodontist, rubber bands with Invisalign will correct the bite.

Generally rubber bands are used with fixed braces only. You will likely find that this system does address what your daughter needs. She may also prefer it as Invisalign is much harder to see and teens often prefer this aesthetic advantage! As with any orthodontic work, it really depends on her mouth and her specific issues that need addressing so discuss it with her orthodontist.

In the same way that wearing rubber bands (elastics), in conjunction with braces, aids in correcting  a malocclusion (improper bite), the same holds true for wearing them in conjunction with Invisalign. By using the elastics while wearing the Invisalign trays, the bite is slowly changed and moved into a more acceptable position. It is very important that the patient wear the elastics as prescribed by the orthodontist, paying close attention to the number of hours they should be worn daily and also how often they should be changed to a fresh pair. Light continuous forces placed on the teeth and jaw is critical to achieve an ideal final occlusion. When worn as directed by the orthodontist, the elastics are extremely effective and useful.

Invisalign and rubberbands can be used with great success to correct both the crowding and the bite in teenagers. The alternative of having to go into braces is a great motivator to ensure fabulous compliance in our teen patients.

Besides comfort and appearance there are a few other advantages of Invisalign over braces:


much better access for oral hygiene

healthier gums during treatment

decreased risk of decalcification stains on the teeth

shorter appointments and fewer emergency visits


The range of teen patients that can be treated with Invisalign is expanding more and more thanks to constant innovation of the Invisalign appliance.