Orthodontic treatment is not only about braces, but also about additional accessories that support the bite correction process. One of the most important elements used in orthodontics are orthodontic extractions - elastic elastics or special metal elements that support the correct movement of the teeth.

If you are being treated fixed selfligating appliances, the orthodontist may recommend wearing extractions to improve jaw alignment and speed up treatment. How do extractions work? How do you wear them to be effective? Find the answers in this article.

How do orthodontic extractions work?

Orthodontic extractors are flexible components that connect the different parts of the appliance, exerting a controlled force on the teeth and jaw. They help to:
✅ Correction of backbite and forebite
✅ Bringing the dental arches into the correct position
✅ Accelerating treatment

Extracts only work if the patient wear them as recommended by the orthodontist. If you take them off too often or don't wear them long enough, the healing process can be prolonged.

Types of orthodontic extractions

🔹 Intraoral extracts

These are elastic bands attached to the braces' locks. We distinguish between:

• Classes II - helps correct backbite
• Classes III - support the treatment of forebite
• Horizontal and inclined - help align the dental arch

How to wear orthodontic extractions correctly?

For extractions to be effective, you need to follow a few rules:
✔ Wearing as recommended by the orthodontist - usually for 20-22 hours a day
✔ Regular replacement of erasers - daily to maintain the right amount of pressure
✔ Avoiding the removal of lifts unnecessarily - removing them too often weakens the treatment effect

How long does it take to be treated with fixed self-ligating braces with extractions?

The length of time the extractions are worn depends on the complexity of the malocclusion. On average, patients wear them for several months, but in more difficult cases it can take longer. Systematicity is key - the more closely you follow your orthodontist's recommendations, the sooner you will see results.

Frequently asked questions by patients

🔹 Do extracts cause pain?
You may feel a little discomfort at first, but over time you will get used to wearing them.

🔹 What to do if the lift breaks?
A new rubber band should be fitted as soon as possible - it is always a good idea to carry a spare with you.

🔹 Can you eat with the extracts on?
This is not recommended - it is better to take them off at meal times and put new ones on immediately after brushing your teeth.

Summary

Orthodontic extractions are an important part of treatment fixed selfligating appliances. Their effectiveness depends on systematic wearing and following the recommendations of the orthodontist. Although they may cause some discomfort, they help to correct malocclusion more quickly and effectively.

👉 Remember: The better you follow the recommendations, the faster you will achieve the smile of your dreams!achieve the smile of your dreams!

📌 Want to find out more?
✔ Check, how selfligating fixed braces work and how it differs from the traditional one - [read here].
✔ Wondering, how do extracts affect treatment? Click [here] for details.
✔ Do you have pain or discomfort when wearing lifts? See [how to cope].