Molar bands, sometimes called orthodontic bands, may be placed on your back teeth by an orthodontist if you have braces to straighten your teeth, adjust your bite, or treat another dental condition.
Not every brace wearer will require molar bands. Their purpose is to stabilise archwires, which are joined to brackets affixed to the outside of the remaining teeth. Your teeth will move about as a result of these archwire adjustments.
Molar bands can also be a component of an orthodontic device, such as an expander for the upper jaw. In order to treat crowded teeth, this gadget helps a child’s upper dental arch grow.
Here are some reasons why certain people require molar bands and some advice on how to make them more comfortable.
What are molar bands?
Your back teeth are encircled by little rings called molar bands. When orthodontists place braces on your teeth, they apply them.
Usually, stainless steel or metal are used to make the bands. Because of this, they are strong and fairly simple to put over a tooth. In addition, orthodontists are capable of joining metal or steel brace components to molar bands using welding.
Although molar bands are used in conjunction with braces, not everyone needs them. If you need to correct your bite in addition to having your teeth straightened, or if you have a large gap that has to be closed, your orthodontist may suggest molar bands.
Furthermore, molar bands are a preferable option when a bracket on the rear teeth is prone to breaking when biting.
It is common practice to prescribe molar bands to patients undergoing corrective jaw surgery. Because of this, there is a lower chance of bracket breakage, and the surgeon can attach a surgical splint to these bands.
Since molar bands can extend slightly behind the gum line in youngsters whose teeth have not yet developed fully, orthodontists also advise them.
If you have big fillings in your mouth or wear headgear to control the development of your jaw, you may also require a molar band.
Do molar bands hurt?
Your orthodontist will insert elastic spacers, also known as separators, between your teeth prior to applying molar bands.
To gently separate your teeth, you will wear the separators for a few hours to a few days. This creates space for every band of molars.
After getting your separators in, you could notice some tenderness in your teeth. Your teeth are being moved by the separators, which is why.
Upon your visit back to the orthodontist, the molar bands will be positioned around each molar teeth and fastened with a bonding agent (glue).
Usually, getting a band put around your molar doesn’t hurt. Because the gap between your teeth has been created by the separators, there is often little to no discomfort. However, some patients can feel as though they are being pinched or compressed throughout the procedure.
Additionally, a few hours after receiving a molar band, you may have some discomfort around your teeth or gums. This is just a brief soreness that will go away eventually.
You will need to see your orthodontist frequently after receiving braces. If you discover that a band is loose, don’t forget to notify your orthodontist.
You can also experience some brief discomfort if your braces are tightened during these visits.
What is the most effective method for molar band pain relief?
Here are some methods to reduce pain if you have any sensitivity or discomfort following the placement of molar bands:
Steer clear of crunchy, hard foods. Eat no hard, crunchy items like popcorn, hard candies, or ice in the days after your molar bands are placed. In any case, you need to stay away from them to keep your brackets intact. Eat only soft meals such as oats, bread, mashed potatoes and Jell-O.
Take an analgesic.Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs)—over-the-counter pain relievers—like ibuprofen (Advil) can help lower inflammation. As prescribed, take this medicine.
Apply oral medicine topically.A topical oral pain treatment can also be applied straight to aching teeth and gums. Adhere to the directions provided on the medication’s container.
To avoid irritating delicate gums, use a toothbrush with soft or extra-soft bristles.
To reduce discomfort from dental bands rubbing against your gums, apply soft wax to the bands. If you have cuts and bruises on the inside of your cheeks and gums, this is the recommended course of action.
What Benefit can molar bands offer?
Orthodontists may choose to secure archwires in place with brackets. Better oral hygiene is achieved because of the way brackets are made, which makes it simpler to brush and floss in between your back teeth.
However, because molar bands are stronger and less prone to loosening over time, orthodontists frequently choose to employ them.
An further advantage is that orthodontists can modify or add appliances to molar bands that extend or realign the upper or lower jaw.
What drawbacks might molar bands have?
The possibility of tooth decay is one drawback of using molar bands. It might be challenging to clean or floss the region around a molar band since it fully encircles the tooth. If food becomes trapped between the tooth and the band, a cavity may form.
Most orthodontists employ fluoride-containing glues to lower the risk of cavities in order to stop this from happening.
Although there are no certainties, brushing and flossing more frequently can help prevent tooth decay.
Summary
While they are a component of various braces-based orthodontic treatments, molar bands are not always required.
If you need to correct your bite in addition to having your teeth straightened, or if you have a large gap that has to be closed, your orthodontist may suggest molar bands.
Molar bands are useful for straightening teeth, but because they make it harder to clean or floss the region, they increase the risk of dental decay.
Speak with your orthodontist if, after receiving a molar band, you continue to feel pain, discomfort, or sensitivity.
FAQs for Patients
- How much time does it take to put on molar bands?
- Is it possible to alter molar bands for cosmetic purposes?
- Are there any age limitations on the placement of molar bands?
- Do molar bands need to be removed specifically before eating?
- Is it possible to remove molar bands on special occasions?