Spacers are often needed in orthodontics to help enhance the entire treatment process. A lot of people have a need for spacers to ensure that their orthodontic treatment goes to plan.
Wondering what spacers in orthodontics even are? This addition to braces or aligners may be recommended by a general dentist. This article outlines what spacers are, how they work and when they might be needed.
Keep reading to find out what spacers are and when they are used in orthodontic treatment.
Orthodontic spacers are also known as separators. They are elastic rubber bands or small metal pieces that go in between teeth, specifically molars. Whether the spacer is elastic or metal, it will be extremely small in the mouth. Depending on the patient's teeth, there may be anywhere from one to eight spacers placed in the mouth.
General dentists use orthodontic spacers for patients whose teeth are really tight together, specifically the back molars, which is pretty common in patients that need orthodontic treatment. Spacers are typically placed before the braces or aligners to help ensure that the teeth will be ready for the treatment to begin. The spacers help create gaps in the teeth so that braces or other appliances will fit correctly when placed.
A lot of patients wonder how long the spacers will have to remain in the mouth and the answer is anywhere from a week to two weeks. The timeline of the orthodontic spacers depends solely on the general dentist's recommendation and the patient's teeth. Teeth that shift quickly will only require spaces for a short time, but teeth that are extremely tight or take a while to move may need to have spacers in place for longer.
It is good to be aware that spacers in orthodontics may cause some discomfort. When the teeth are extremely close together, the patient may experience some irritation to the gums, which can be uncomfortable. Another instance of possible pain occurs over time. The spacers may not be irritating when first placed, however, over time as they begin to shift the teeth, the patient may experience some soreness.
General dentists recommend that patients use a lot of ice and cold compresses around the areas that are in pain. Drinking cold beverages can also help soothe any irritations. Over-the-counter medications can be used to bring down inflammation and reduce pain.
Pain or discomfort should not last for more than a couple of weeks. Because the orthodontic spacers are only to be in place for a couple of weeks, the patient should start to feel normal again, once they are removed.
Further questions or concerns about orthodontics or the use of spacers should be addressed by a general dentist. Reach out today to get help or to learn more!
Request an appointment here: https://www.emanuelorthodontics.com or call Michael Emanuel DDS PLLC at (718) 336-5005 for an appointment in our Brooklyn office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
More people are recognizing the importance of teeth straightening. You can consult your dentist if you think you need this treatment. Receiving a referral to an orthodontist can present the possible types of dental straightening. Here are the different teeth straightening options that your orthodontist can offer.This type of teeth straightening system involves wearing removable,…
You need to wear a retainer after your dental alignment. It may seem like a hassle to wear these oral appliances after finishing months of wearing braces or aligners. But it is not. This stage of dental alignment is important for the lasting results of your straightened teeth. Here are the details about the importance…
If you are told your child needs braces, but you do not like the idea of traditional metal braces, you might consider ceramic braces as another option. To help determine if these are the right option for your child, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions about alternative ceramic braces. One of the main…
Clear aligners are a great way to straighten your smile without making it known to everyone that you are doing so.Unfortunately, however, not everyone is an ideal candidate for clear aligners, and it is helpful to know when clear aligners are the best option over alternative teeth straightening options.Clear aligners help many each year achieve…
More people are recognizing the importance of teeth straightening. You can consult your dentist if you think you need this treatment. Receiving a referral to an orthodontist can present the possible types of dental straightening. Here are the different teeth straightening options that your orthodontist can offer.This type of teeth straightening system involves wearing removable,…
You need to wear a retainer after your dental alignment. It may seem like a hassle to wear these oral appliances after finishing months of wearing braces or aligners. But it is not. This stage of dental alignment is important for the lasting results of your straightened teeth. Here are the details about the importance…