Power chain braces use colored power chains to help patients remember the steps needed to take care of their new braces. These simple devices keep patients on track by reminding them how to clean, maintain, and wear their orthodontic appliances, while also making sure they don’t neglect any of the important steps that will ensure their orthodontic treatment progresses smoothly and as quickly as possible.
The Science Behind Power Chains
On power chain brace systems, there’s an O-ring or rubber band (the power chain) that creates resistance as you move your teeth. This power chain, which is visible to those around you and creates an audible click noise with each bite, helps strengthen specific muscle groups that are vital for having strong and healthy teeth and jawbones. Studies have shown that athletes can strengthen certain muscle groups with resistance training—such as core muscles—and power chains work in much the same way by strengthening your jaw muscles.
How to Choose the Right Colors
When you’re looking for power chain colors, it’s important to keep in mind what your main goal is: supporting teeth that are moving vs. preventing pain and inflammation. If you want to support teeth moving through phases of rapid growth, bright blues and greens can be effective. If you want to reduce inflammation in teeth that aren’t moving, go with purples and reds as they have less strength (meaning they are not as hard).
Types of Rubber Bands That Can be Use as Power Chains
Every color has a specific effect when it comes to braces. However, there are some caveats and warnings associated with each power chain color. In most cases, you’ll be given instructions about which types of rubber bands should be used for what conditions. For example, yellow rubber bands are often use in more severe cases because they have a stronger pulling force that helps realign teeth faster than other colors. If you’re unsure about your specific situation, it is best to ask your orthodontist or dental professional before using any power chains on your braces. It’s also important to note that while they all accomplish different tasks, they all serve as an important part of having straight teeth!
The Importance of Good Timing
One of our power chains, ProTainer, has an attached marker to ensure you and your orthodontist (and team) are always in sync. Using ProTainer power chains is one of many ways you can work with your orthodontist to improve your results. Just make sure that you keep up-to-date with power chain colors; if you wear your trays too long, for example, some teeth could overgrow, requiring additional procedures to fix. By keeping things organized and communicating regularly with your orthodontist—the true expert on getting braces off as fast as possible—you’ll be able to hit all of your milestones without delay or issue.
How Long Will My Child Wear a Power Chain?
While power chains are usually worn for at least 2 years, everyone’s orthodontic journey is different. How long your child wears his or her power chain will depend on several factors, including tooth movement and your dentist or orthodontist’s evaluation. When your child no longer needs to wear a power chain (which varies depending on age), it can be remove. Your dentist or orthodontist may then recommend wearing a retainer while teeth continue to move into place as part of their treatment plan. This allows them to make sure everything settles in its new position before going without further support. Your dentist or orthodontist will inform you when it’s time to remove your child’s power chain and get fit for their first retainer.
Tips For Getting Your Child To Wear Their Power Chain
It’s an interesting fact that not many parents realize when they purchase their child their first set of Power Chain Braces. That power chain isn’t just there for show, it has a purpose! Here are some tips to ensure your child uses and enjoys using their power chain as much as possible.