A FEW THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW
Normally your teeth fit snugly against each other. Teeth often have to be moved apart, particularly the back teeth (molars), to make room for your fixed (glued-in) appliance or braces.
Small springs and little plastic modules, shaped like a small doughnut, are two types of separators (spacers) used. Once in place they gently move certain teeth slightly apart to create space to allow accurate and comfortable placement of little rings (bands) around those teeth at your next appointment.
When the separator is first placed it often causes some temporary pressure. Initially you may feel like food is stuck between your teeth. Following that, your teeth may be tender during the next few days of wearing separators. Tylenol (Acetaminophen) or Advil (Ibuprofen/Motrin) often help with any tenderness while your teeth are adjusting. This tenderness is normal and should disappear within one week.
The best relief comes from normal use of your teeth for chewing. This will make your teeth feel normal again more quickly.
Those teeth usually feel comfortable again as they get accustomed to being slightly apart. The space between your teeth that is being created allows little rings (bands) to be fitted easily and in the best position for your future changes.
YOUR PART:
- Avoid chewing anything sticky while you have separators. All kinds of gum and chewy/ sticky foods will make your separators fall out too early.
- Don’t play with or try to take out the separators
- Don’t floss the particular teeth where the separators are placed
