Orthodontic spacers, often called separators, are small elastic rings or tiny metal springs placed between certain back teeth. They serve a singular purpose in preparation for comprehensive orthodontic treatment. Their function is to gently create a small amount of space between adjacent teeth, typically molars. This temporary spacing allows the orthodontist to comfortably fit a metal orthodontic band around the tooth at a subsequent appointment.
The Immediate Answer: Why Gum is Prohibited
The answer to whether you can chew gum with spacers is a clear no. The primary issue lies in the sticky, viscoelastic nature of chewing gum, even varieties labeled as sugar-free. When gum is chewed, its adhesive properties cause it to bond readily to the spacer material. The continuous motion of chewing creates a constant pulling force on the spacer. Since the spacer is held only by slight tension against the teeth, this pulling action easily overcomes that friction, leading to the dislodgment and premature removal of the separator.
Removing the spacer prematurely means the gap will quickly close again, potentially delaying the next stage of treatment. Since physical stickiness is the problem, the chemical composition of the gum, whether it contains sugar or artificial sweeteners, does not change the high risk of failure. Avoiding all forms of chewing gum is necessary for the short period the spacers are in place.
Other Dietary Restrictions with Spacers
While gum presents the highest risk of mechanical dislodgement, other types of food also pose a significant threat to the integrity of the spacers. Foods that are particularly hard should be avoided completely because they can compress or break the small elastic ring. This category includes items such as ice cubes, hard candies, and nuts.
Crunchy foods, such as popcorn kernels or hard potato chips, pose a different kind of risk. Small fragments of these foods can become wedged between the tooth and the spacer. The leverage created by this trapped debris can physically force the separator out of its intended position.
Overly chewy or sticky foods that mimic the consistency of gum must also be temporarily eliminated from the diet. Foods like caramels, taffy, licorice, tough meats, or dense bagels create a similar pulling action during mastication. These temporary dietary modifications are essential to ensure the spacer remains seated until the scheduled appointment to fit the orthodontic bands.
Addressing Spacer Dislodgement
If a spacer accidentally falls out or comes loose, the first step is to remain calm. If the small elastic ring is inadvertently swallowed, there is no cause for alarm, as the material is small and will safely pass through the digestive system.
The patient should immediately contact the orthodontist’s office for guidance. Sometimes, the spacer has already successfully created enough room, and replacement is unnecessary before the next appointment. However, the space often begins to close quickly, requiring the orthodontist to replace the separator to ensure the band can be fitted successfully at the scheduled time.