Anyone allergic to rubberbands?

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**shinyhappybraceface**
Posts: 205
Joined: Sun Aug 07, 2005 6:03 am
Location: upstate new york
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Anyone allergic to rubberbands?

#1 Post by **shinyhappybraceface** »

I have a latex allergy and I'm concerned that I'll have a problem with rubberbands when it comes time for me to use them.

My allergy isn't severe, but I can tell when the doc forgets to use vinyl gloves because my tongue gets really itchy.

Anyone else have an allergy - and how did you cope? Did you have problems with the rubber bands or am I just freaking out prematurely?

I have an appointment with my ortho tomorrow so I'll probably ask then, if I remember.

Thanks,

Manda
The future is no place to place your better days. ~DMB

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Attagirl2
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Location: Ohio

#2 Post by Attagirl2 »

Hi Manda, I have an allergy to latex, too. They have marked my chart with a big notice, and I always remind them to use vinal gloves. I get the same kind of reaction - rash and itching.

If they were to use true "Rubber Bands", you would have an allergic reaction. Be sure to remind them to use only "Elastic Bands". I am to start them in February, at my next appointment.

It is important that you not get exposed to any more latex, if at all possible. I was told that continued exposure will make one's reaction get worse.
Had Damon 3 / Smart Clips for almost 2 years
Now in Hawley upper 10 hours/day, permanent lower retainers

**shinyhappybraceface**
Posts: 205
Joined: Sun Aug 07, 2005 6:03 am
Location: upstate new york
Contact:

#3 Post by **shinyhappybraceface** »

Oh great - I'm so relieved. Thanks Attagirl!

I'll be sure to talk to my ortho about it this morning, as well.
The future is no place to place your better days. ~DMB

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chrisd
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#4 Post by chrisd »

yes there are "rubber bands" that are latex free.
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**shinyhappybraceface**
Posts: 205
Joined: Sun Aug 07, 2005 6:03 am
Location: upstate new york
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#5 Post by **shinyhappybraceface** »

At my appointment, I was given two kinds of latex bands. I was told by both the ortho and the hygienist that I "probably would not have any adverse reaction" even though the package had a warning on it for latex-sensitive users. I'm scared to try them - does anyone know where I can find non-latex bands on my own? I'm currently supposed to be wearing the "rabbit" sized ones at night.

Thanks.
The future is no place to place your better days. ~DMB

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NotBob1
Posts: 372
Joined: Mon Dec 05, 2005 9:47 pm
Location: Seattle WA

#6 Post by NotBob1 »

There are "Non-Latex" Elastics. They actually look clear, I was shown some. They are less apparent than the latex ones, too.

Your Orthodontist should have them, I am very surprised that they didn't give this type to you.

You can get them on your own at a website that someone had brought up, but I can't remember what it was.....I remember looking at the site and you could order "patient packs" of elastics in different sizes, strengths, colors and non latex. Maybe someone remembers this post....

If you do, though, make sure you tell your Orthodontist you are getting these so as you can get the EXACT same size, etc.
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Pat
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Maxillary horizontal & 2mm deficiency for upper teeth
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