An orthodontic spacer, or separator, is a small elastic or sometimes metal ring placed between back teeth, typically the molars. Its purpose is to gently create a temporary space necessary for the orthodontist to fit a metal band around the tooth. This band serves as an anchor for the main archwire of the braces. Losing a spacer is common, but requires immediate attention to prevent treatment delays.
Understanding the Importance of Spacers
When a separator is lost, teeth naturally and quickly attempt to return to their original position. Biological forces begin to close the newly created space, defeating the spacer’s purpose. If the necessary gap for the molar band is lost, the treatment timeline is impacted.
This rapid shifting means that if the separator is not replaced promptly, the next scheduled appointment may be impacted. The orthodontist might be unable to place the metal band comfortably or at all, which can postpone the start of the full bracing process. To stay on track, the separator must maintain the space for the one to two weeks it is typically prescribed to be worn.
Step-by-Step Guide to Reinserting the Spacer
A lost elastic spacer can often be reinserted at home using simple tools, such as two pieces of dental floss. First, retrieve the spacer, if possible, and ensure it is clean, or use a new one provided by your orthodontic office. The goal is to stretch the small elastic ring to thin it out, allowing it to slide past the tight contact point between the teeth.
Thread one piece of dental floss completely through the center of the elastic spacer, and repeat with the second piece of floss. This creates a cross shape, with the spacer in the center and four loose ends of floss extending outward. Grasp the two opposing floss ends firmly and pull them away from each other to stretch the elastic ring into an elongated oval shape. Stretching the elastic thins the material.
Carefully position the stretched spacer over the contact point where it was originally placed, which is usually between the back molars. Gently use a slight sawing motion with the floss handles to work the lower half of the stretched elastic through the tight space beneath the contact point of the teeth. Once the bottom half of the elastic slips under the contact point, the top portion should rest just above it. This indicates the spacer is correctly positioned around the teeth and fully seated below the gumline.
Hold the spacer in place with a clean finger or the edge of a clean cotton swab to prevent it from immediately popping out. Now, gently pull one piece of floss out from the side of the spacer, then repeat this with the second piece of floss. Be careful not to dislodge the elastic ring while removing the floss strands one at a time. If the spacer remains seated with a small portion visible at the top, the reinsertion was successful.
When Self-Correction Fails and Professional Help is Needed
Patients should stop attempting to reinsert a spacer and contact the orthodontic office if they experience excessive pain or notice bleeding from the gums. Stop immediately if the elastic cannot be easily positioned between the teeth after a few attempts. Forcing the spacer can cause trauma to the gum tissue or damage the tooth surface, which is counterproductive to treatment.
If you are unable to successfully replace the spacer, or if the original spacer was metal, you must contact your orthodontist immediately. The office can assess the urgency and determine if the space has been lost, a situation that requires professional intervention. They possess specialized tools, such as separator pliers, that make the re-insertion process quicker and less likely to cause discomfort.
If the loss occurs several days before the next scheduled appointment, a replacement is often necessary to prevent the space from closing completely. Even if the appointment is the next day, the office should still be called. They may need to adjust the schedule or use a specialized technique to ensure the molar band can still be placed. Timely communication ensures that the overall orthodontic treatment plan remains on schedule.
Tips for Preventing Spacer Loss
Once a spacer is successfully reinserted or replaced, adjusting certain habits is necessary to help keep it in place until the next appointment. Diet is a major factor, as sticky and chewy foods can adhere to the elastic material and pull the spacer out when you chew. Avoid items like chewing gum, caramels, taffy, and other gummy candies completely.
Hard, crunchy foods also pose a risk because the force required to break them down can dislodge the spacer. This includes things like hard pretzels, popcorn, ice, and nuts, all of which should be avoided. Instead, opt for soft foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, pasta, and steamed vegetables.
Adjustments to oral hygiene are also important to avoid accidental removal. Do not floss between the teeth where the spacer is located, as this will likely pull it out. Instead, brush gently around the area. Ensure you clean the exposed surfaces of the teeth without putting direct pressure on the spacer.