Elastics (Rubber Bands)

Orthodontic elastics — commonly called rubber bands — are used with fixed metal braces to apply additional directional force between the upper and lower teeth. They are attached to hooks on the upper and lower brackets and work to correct bite alignment issues such as overbite, underbite, and overjet. Elastics must be worn consistently — usually 22 hours a day — and replaced daily to maintain effective force. Compliance with elastic wear is one of the biggest factors influencing treatment duration. The more consistently your teen or you wear them, the faster treatment progresses. For full instructions, visit our elastics care page.

Headgear

Headgear is prescribed for patients with a severe overjet (upper teeth too far forward) or underbite (lower teeth protruding beyond the upper), where significant jaw correction is needed. It applies continuous, controlled force to either push teeth backward and restrict upper jaw growth, or pull the lower jaw forward and encourage its growth — depending on the nature of the bite problem. Headgear is most effective in growing patients and is typically worn for a prescribed number of hours per day, often in the evenings and overnight. Dr. Hessamfar will give you a precise wearing schedule and explain exactly how to put on and remove the appliance safely.

Positioners

A positioner is a soft, custom-made appliance worn near the end of orthodontic treatment to make final, fine-tuned adjustments to tooth position and bite alignment. Positioners help ensure that the teeth settle precisely into their ideal final positions and that the bite is stable before retention begins. They are typically worn for a short period — usually a few weeks — and help create a smooth transition between active braces treatment and long-term retainer wear.

Retainers

Retainers are the final — and arguably most important — appliance in the orthodontic process. Once braces are removed, the teeth have a natural tendency to drift back toward their original positions. A retainer holds the teeth in their newly corrected positions and allows the surrounding bone and tissues to fully stabilize. Retainers may be removable (worn nightly or as prescribed) or fixed (a thin wire bonded to the back of the teeth). Dr. Hessamfar will recommend the most appropriate retainer type for your case. Consistent retainer wear is a lifelong commitment — it is the most important thing you can do to protect the results of your orthodontic treatment. For full care instructions, visit our retainer care page.

It is completely normal to experience some soreness or discomfort when an orthodontic appliance is first fitted and following any adjustments throughout treatment. This typically subsides within 3 to 5 days as the mouth adapts. Over-the-counter acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help manage temporary discomfort — avoid ibuprofen (Advil) and aspirin, which may slow tooth movement.

Some appliances — particularly palatal expanders and lingual braces — can temporarily affect speech, causing a mild lisp or difficulty with certain sounds. This is normal and resolves on its own as the tongue and mouth learn to work around the appliance. Most patients adjust within one to two weeks.

If you experience persistent or sharp pain in the gums, or if an appliance feels loose, broken, or is causing unusual discomfort, contact ABSC immediately so Dr. Hessamfar can adjust or repair your appliance. Do not wait until your next scheduled appointment — prompt attention prevents delays to your treatment.

Orthodontic appliance fitting, monitoring, and adjustment are available at all three ABSC offices. If you have a concern about your appliance between appointments, any of our offices can assist you promptly.

• Ashburn, VA — serving Ashburn, Leesburg, Sterling, Chantilly, and Herndon
• Woodbridge, VA — serving Woodbridge, Manassas, Dale City, Dumfries, and Lake Ridge
• Alexandria, VA — serving Alexandria, Fairfax, Reston, Springfield, and Annandale

Call us at 703-726-6561 or book a consultation online.