Spacers are small doughnut-shaped modules placed between your teeth. Slight space between the teeth is needed before the fitting and cementing of the orthodontic bands so that the patient will experience as little discomfort as possible.
Spacers make the placement of the bands much easier. To get this space, small rubber rings may be placed between the teeth. It is important that you not eat anything hard, sticky, or tacky (this includes gum of any kind). Do not finger or pick at the spacers because this may cause them to fall out. Food may collect around these spacers, so you will need to brush gently but thoroughly and you may also use a Water-Pik oral hygiene appliance.
You may experience some soreness of the teeth for the first few days. This is normal, and will not last for very long. You may use Ambesol, Orajel or Chloraseptic Spray on your spacer area. If you do experience tenderness, eat a softer diet and rinse with warm salt water throughout the day. You may also want to use Tylenol or Advil to help you during this period of time while your spacers are in.
Important: If any of the spacers come out before your next appointment, please call our office at 8:15 the next business day. We will decide based on your individual needs if we need to replace the spacers and when to do so.
What are SPACERS?