If you currently have braces or are considering them, you may be curious about what it means to have a power chain for your braces. These are traditional braces enhanced with an elastic chain or o-ring loops that apply a light, continuous pressure to spaced or rotated teeth.
Not sure if this is the right orthodontic appliance for you? The best answer for this will always be found through your local, experienced orthodontist. (Not the Internet!)
However, you can use this guide to make an informed decision. We’re covering everything you should know about power chains for braces, including chain lengths, benefits, maintenance, and more.
And if you’re looking for a great office to get dental braces, we discuss how to get a complimentary consultation at the end of this guide.
Let’s dive in.
What is a Power Chain for Braces?
As mentioned, power chains for braces are elastic components added to traditional braces. They’re designed to provide continuous pressure that enhances the efficiency of your orthodontic treatment, which means quickly closing gaps and realigning crooked teeth.
There are three different types of power chains for braces:
- Closed (Continuous) Power Chains: Designed to connect at every tooth
- Short (Open) Power Chains: Designed to connect every other tooth
- Long (Wide) Power Chains: Designed to connect every third tooth
The power chain lengths you’ll receive depend on your specific treatment plan. It’s a good idea to chat with your orthodontist about the power chain options for your orthodontic treatment. However, if they are experienced, they will be the one to bring this to your attention.
Power Chains and Braces
Power chains are typically used for expediting the movement of crooked teeth or closing gaps due to other orthodontic issues.
Traditional metal braces use:
- Wire (titanium, nickel, and chromium)
- Small metal brackets attached to each tooth
- Individual ligatures (or ties) for each tooth
In contrast, when added to braces, a power chain is:
- A type of elastic band that pulls teeth together
- A closed, short, or long elastic chain to close the remaining gaps
- O-ring loops at various distances to apply continuous pressure
In other words, power chains replace the individual ligatures on your wire braces by connecting multiple brackets with an elastic band. The goal is to ensure proper alignment and close gaps in your teeth
Who Should Get Power Chains on Their Braces?
Power chains can be used with your braces if:
- You have gaps between specific teeth. They help to guide your teeth into lasting, healthy alignment.
- Your teeth are rotated or misaligned.
Not sure where you fall on the spectrum or wish to consider other options such as Invisalign? Contact the team at Three Leaf Orthodontics to request a consult for braces vs Invisalign.
When Do You Get Power Chain on Your Braces?
Orthodontists often use power chains toward the end of a person’s traditional braces treatment. However, depending on your unique dental alignment, your orthodontist may recommend power chains at any stage of treatment.
You will likely have your braces between six months and three years. However, the exact time period depends on your teeth, your orthodontic treatment, and the guidance of your healthcare professional.
What Do I Do After Getting Power Chains on My Braces?
First, be careful of what you eat. Sticky, hard, or high-sugar foods could weaken or break a new power chain.
Next, be sure to maintain your braces. You should brush after each meal and gently rinse with water. If you cannot use traditional floss, use a water flosser at least twice per day.
Finally, inspect your power chains for signs of damage. Any snaps, breaks, or frays in the material should prompt you to call your orthodontist.
Keep in mind changes to your power chain color aren’t necessarily cause for alarm. Staining is common, and discoloration may occur with certain foods. If you’re concerned about unsightly stains, you may want to consider darker power chain colors.
Where to Get Your Braces
At Three Leaf Orthodontics, we see hundreds of patients a year with all kinds of bite and smile concerns. With locations in Waxhaw, NC and in South Charlotte as well, We are committed to helping you achieve the smile of your dreams.
Could braces be the right fit for you? Give Three Leaf Orthodontics a call at 704-727-6868 to schedule a complimentary consultation.
Power Chain Braces FAQ
What does a power chain do on braces?
A power chain moves teeth closer together using a string of interconnected rubber bands. In addition to the traditional brackets and metal, you’ll also receive an interconnected elastic band applying more continuous pressure. This allows the device to close gaps more quickly, fix crooked teeth, and move your dental midline into proper alignment.
How painful are power chain braces?
Power chains on your braces do not cause more discomfort than traditional braces. It is normal to experience some discomfort when braces are adjusted, but any feelings of soreness or irritation will likely subside after a few hours after treatment. You should speak with your orthodontist about what to expect, then request possible solutions when experiencing discomfort.