Orthodontic separators, often called spacers, are small components placed between specific teeth to prepare for braces. These devices are typically tiny rubber bands or small metal springs inserted into tight contacts between adjacent teeth. Their purpose is to gently push the teeth slightly apart to create temporary space. This spacing allows the orthodontist to later fit metal bands or other appliances around the molars. Patients usually wear separators for one to two weeks, and during this time, they must modify their eating habits.
The Direct Answer Chips and Crunchy Foods
The definitive answer to whether you can eat chips and other crunchy foods with separators is no. Separators are intentionally designed to be under tension in a tight space, making them highly susceptible to external forces. Biting into hard or crunchy foods, such as corn chips, hard taco shells, ice, or pretzels, creates powerful lateral and compressive forces. This force is easily transferred to the separator, which can cause the small device to snap out of its position.
The separator cannot withstand the uneven pressure required to crush hard food. When a crunchy item breaks apart, the resulting pressure differential is often enough to push the separator out prematurely. Losing a separator before the intended space is fully created can significantly delay the subsequent appointment for placing orthodontic bands. Chips and similar hard items are considered a primary cause of separator loss.
Consuming any food that requires forceful chewing or has a brittle, fracturing texture puts the treatment at risk. Even thin, hard snacks pose a risk because the shearing force used to break them is concentrated directly on the separator. Avoiding all foods that audibly crunch ensures the separator remains in place until the orthodontist is ready to proceed to the next phase of treatment.
Managing Discomfort and Sensitivity
Separators cause temporary soreness and sensitivity as they actively create space between the teeth. This feeling is a sign that the separators are working by stretching the periodontal ligaments that anchor the teeth. Discomfort generally peaks within the first one to two days following placement and then gradually subsides.
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be effective in managing this initial soreness. It is often recommended to take a dose shortly before the separators are placed or as soon as discomfort appears. Applying a cold compress or an ice pack to the outside of the cheek near the affected area provides temporary relief by numbing the tissue. Rinsing the mouth several times a day with a warm salt water solution can also soothe any irritated gum tissue surrounding the separators.
Safe Eating Practices and Food Alternatives
The goal while wearing separators is to select foods that require minimal chewing force and do not possess the texture to snag or dislodge the devices. Safe foods are those that are soft, easily mashed, or already in liquid form. These include soft dairy items like yogurt, creamy soups, and milkshakes, as well as starches such as mashed potatoes, soft pasta, and cooked rice.
Protein sources should be chosen carefully, favoring soft-cooked fish, ground meat, or scrambled eggs over tough cuts. Fresh fruits and vegetables should be prepared by steaming them until tender or blending them into smoothies. Any food that requires a slicing or tearing motion, like sandwiches or whole apples, should be cut into small, bite-sized pieces before eating.
When chewing, place food on the surfaces of the teeth furthest from the separators. Chewing slowly and deliberately minimizes the sudden, forceful movements that could put undue pressure on the devices. By adhering to a soft diet, patients can prevent the accidental loss of a separator and maintain their orthodontic treatment schedule.
What to Do If a Separator Comes Out
If a separator falls out before the scheduled appointment, it requires immediate attention from the orthodontic office. A lost separator indicates that either the device successfully created the space, or it was accidentally dislodged before its job was complete. The concern is that the gap created between the teeth may quickly close, or relapse, if the separator is not replaced.
The first step is always to contact your orthodontist right away to report the loss. They will determine if the separator needs to be replaced. If the separator is lost several days before your next appointment, replacement is usually necessary to ensure the space remains open for band placement. Failing to replace a lost separator will likely result in the delay of the treatment appointment.