Purpose and Application of Orthodontic Spacers
- Spacers are used to create spaces between teeth before braces.
- They can be rubber or metal.
- They are used when teeth are too close together.
- Spacers are typically in place for one to two weeks.
- The gaps created by spacers are necessary for applying appliances or braces.
- Spacers are placed between teeth using floss or small metal spring clips.
- Pressure and soreness may be felt during and after the application.
- Orthodontic tools may be used to open the rubber bands.
Pain and Discomfort Associated with Orthodontic Spacers
- Patients may experience constant pain if there is little or no space between their molars.
- Spacers can dig into the gums, causing bleeding and swelling.
- Pain relievers can alleviate the discomfort.
- Spacers may start to hurt after some time or immediately.
- Chewing certain foods can be difficult due to pain.
- Spacers can cause intense pain if teeth are crowded.
- Pain usually lasts for several days after placement.
Removal of Orthodontic Spacers
- Spacers are removed by the orthodontist or may fall out on their own.
- They are usually taken out just before braces are fitted.
- Metal spacers may be removable and adjustable.
- The removal process is relatively painless.
- In some cases, spacers may be worn for up to a week before removal.
Metal Spacers
- Metal spacers are small and placed around the tooth.
- They are commonly used when braces are already on another set of teeth.
- Metal spacers are often worn longer than rubber bands.
- They can be more painful and may tear into the gums.
Comparison with Rubber Bands
- Rubber bands are used more frequently than metal spacers.
- Metal spacers are often worn longer than rubber bands.
This article may need to be rewritten to comply with Wikipedia's quality standards. (May 2009) |
Orthodontic separators (also 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. They are usually added a week before you get your braces, but can sometimes be added after.
Spacers are either circular rubber bands about a centimeter in diameter placed between top and bottom molars;[citation needed] there may be 1-12 spacers applied or small metal spring clips (spring separators) that push the molars apart. The spacers stay between the teeth for one week 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 rubber rings or other appliances.
