Orthodontic treatment often requires preparation before the main components, such as brackets and wires, are applied to the teeth. This preliminary phase involves the temporary placement of small, specialized devices known as spacers, or separators. These devices, which are typically tiny elastic rings or metal springs, are inserted between specific teeth to create necessary clearance. Understanding how these separators are put into place helps prepare patients for the initial steps of their tooth alignment journey.
The Purpose of Orthodontic Spacers
The function of orthodontic spacers is to gently push certain teeth apart over a short duration. This separation is necessary because the back teeth, particularly the molars, are typically positioned very tightly against one another. The slight gap created by the spacer is not for the braces themselves, but for the metal bands that will encircle the molars. These bands serve as anchors for the archwire, which connects all the brackets and applies the force needed to move the teeth.
Without pre-existing space, it would be difficult or uncomfortable for the orthodontist to slide these metal bands securely into place during the next appointment. Spacers typically remain in the mouth for approximately one to two weeks, which is the time needed to achieve the required separation. This gentle, continuous pressure ensures that the subsequent placement of the molar bands is a smoother experience for the patient. The spacers are removed just before the bands are fitted.
Step-by-Step Placement Procedure
The process of inserting orthodontic spacers is quick and straightforward, often taking only a few minutes per appointment. The clinician first identifies the teeth, usually the molars, where the metal bands will eventually be placed. If elastic separators are used, the most common type, they resemble small, brightly colored rubber bands.
The clinician uses a specialized tool, often a pair of separation pliers or dental floss, to stretch the small elastic ring. Stretching the ring makes it thin enough to be worked into the tight contact point between the two adjacent teeth. The stretched spacer is then carefully guided and slid down past the contact point, positioning it just below the chewing surface of the tooth.
As the elastic separator is released, its natural tendency to return to its original doughnut shape exerts a gentle force against the sides of the two teeth. Patients may feel a brief, firm pressure or a slight pinching sensation as the material passes the tightest point. This pressure quickly subsides once the spacer is fully seated and signals that the separator has begun creating space. Metal spring separators are an alternative, inserted using specific pliers, and are sometimes chosen when teeth are exceptionally close together.
Managing Discomfort and Initial Care
It is common to experience a sensation of dull pressure or a persistent ache once the spacers have been placed, which is caused by the devices actively pushing the teeth apart. Some patients describe the feeling as similar to having food wedged between their back teeth. This discomfort typically peaks within the first one to three days following the procedure.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can effectively manage this initial soreness. Taking the medication before the pain becomes severe can help maintain comfort during the adjustment period. Rinsing the mouth with a warm salt water solution can also soothe irritated gums and surrounding tissues.
Patients must be careful with their diet to prevent dislodging the spacers. Sticky foods like caramel, taffy, or chewing gum must be strictly avoided because they can easily pull the elastic ring out of place. Hard or crunchy foods, such as nuts or hard candies, should also be avoided as they can cause the separators to shift or break.
Gentle brushing should continue normally, but patients must avoid flossing in the areas where the spacers are located. If a spacer happens to fall out more than two days before the next scheduled appointment, it is important to contact the orthodontist, as it may need to be replaced to ensure the created space remains open.