I have a low allergy to latex, can i still wear the orthodontic bands used to fix overbite?

Yes: There are non-latex alternatives.

Yes: Allergy may be due to chemicals used during the manufacturing process, and not all products are manufactured the same way.

Yes: There are very few true latex allergies in my practice. Do you have a reaction to the latex gloves your orthodontist uses? If you do, there are other materials and methods to obtain the correction you need. Many times people relate their history of latex allergy, and in the end many of the patients are allergic to the powder in the latex glove. Do you or your partner ever use condoms? Latex too.

Yes: While there are non-latex alternatives, I have found that they do not work nearly as well for bite correction as the conventional, latex rubber bands. Most of my patients who think they may have a latex allergy or a "low allergy" will receive both types so that they can see if the latex ones irritate or not. If so, they switch to the non-latex. Hope this helps!

Yes: There are latex free elastics. American orthodontics is one company that sells them. Inform your orthodontist of your concerns, don't take any chances.

Yes: Simply request non-latex elastics from your orthodontist. They are just as effective as the latex variety.

Yes: Let your orthodontist know about your latex allergy. They will make sure you get non-latex elastics to wear that will help fix your overbite.

How do you know?: Is your "low allergy" diagnosed solely from you anecdotal history, or have you been tested by a qualified allergist? True latex allergy is not very common. You may have adverse reaction to powder in the gloves rather than the latex. Your orthodontic specialist can provide you with non-latex elastics. Would be best to have allergist evaluate you.