Getting Separators

Orthodontic Separators

Orthodontic separators (commonly known as spacers) are rubber bands or metal appliances used in orthodontics. Spacers are placed between the molars at the second orthodontic appointment, before molar bands are applied. Spacers are either circular rubber bands about a centimeter in diameter placed between top and bottom molars. There may be 1-8 spacers applied or small metal spring clips (spring separators) that push the molars apart. The spacers stay between the teeth for one to two weeks and move the teeth apart slowly until they are far apart enough so that orthodontists can fit a tooth brace or molar band in between them or fit an expander with metal rings.

Purpose

Spacers are usually used to put spaces in between teeth before braces are established. It can be agitating or painful, but patients are often warned not to pick at them or they will fall out. They are usually rubber, but sometimes they can be metal. They can be used when a patient’s teeth are too close together. Although they are sometimes very painful, they are usually only in place for one to two weeks. Spacers can also cause toothache and gum pain because of the constant pressure against the patient’s teeth. The gaps that the spacers create are necessary to apply certain appliances or braces.

Pain

There are various reactions patients experience to having spacers placed between their teeth. If the patient has a relatively small amount of space between their molars (or none at all), then the spacer may irritate the nerves in the gum of the mouth, causing constant pain. In some cases the spacer digs into the gums, causing bleeding and swelling; and would be more uncomfortable than the actual braces. An orthodontist may advise the patient to drink cold drinks or to eat ice cream, producing a similar, although less efficient and short-lasting effect. Spacers are usually painful, although pain relievers can alleviate the pain if needed. Depending on the placement of the patient’s teeth, spacers may not hurt when first applied, then start to hurt after some time, or they may immediately start to hurt. Depending on the type, spacers may cause pain while chewing, making certain foods (usually those that are tough or crispy) difficult to eat. Some people may also experience a sensation similar to having loose milk teeth. Brushing will not cause spacers to be displaced and regular, if not more, brushing while spacers are in place is encouraged.

Application

The application process of spacers usually involves stringing floss through the rubber band and placing the spacer between the teeth. Some spacers are small metal spring clips that squeeze the teeth apart. There is some pressure throughout the process and some soreness after, but overall, the spacer application process is quite painless, although the patient may immediately start to feel pain from the pressure exerted on the teeth. Sometimes special orthodontic tools are used to stretch open the rubber bands, depending on how crowded the teeth are. If the jaw is especially crowded, the spacers may cause intense constant pain due to the teeth moving closer together. This pain begins a while after placement and usually lasts for several days.

Removal

Spacers are worn until the orthodontist removes them or they are removed accidentally. Spacers may also fall out on their own without being removed by the patient by picking or eating sticky foods. Sometimes, a dentist may use a spacer that is similar to a metal spacer but is removable and in some cases it may have a key or string used to adjust the tightness. The spacers are taken out the minute before braces are put on.

Orthodontic Separators FAQs

What are they for?

Separators have been placed between your back molars to create space to allow the fitting of braces at the next visit. Here are a few simple instructions to help you:

Will they be sore?

The back teeth may be tender when biting and chewing for the next few days. This is not uncommon.

What foods can I eat?

Stick to soft foods (e.g. pasta, soup, mash, yogurts).

Should I take Panadol?

It is a good idea to take some Panadol if you are concerned about discomfort.

How do I look after my separators?

Eat and brush normally. Do not floss where the separators have been placed. Do not pick at or play with the separators. This may cause them to fall out before they have had enough time to create space between the teeth.

What if they fall out?

If they fall out during normal eating or brushing, that means there is already sufficient room and there is no need to worry.  If they have been picked out. Please call us to arrange a time to have them replaced, as it may make fitting of the braces more difficult.