Dental spacers

Your orthodontist can determine whether or not you’ll require a spacer. There are several reasons a child or adult might lose teeth, such as tooth decay, disease, trauma or accidents. If there’s a risk that the surrounding teeth will shift to fill in the gap before the child’s adult tooth can grow in or the adult can receive an implant or dentures, an orthodontist may consider using a spacer.

You’ll likely feel a slight pressure on your teeth when your orthodontist first installs your spacers. The appliances exert gentle force to hold your teeth in place. With time, you’ll get used to the sensation.

In the days immediately following your spacer installation, you might feel a small amount of discomfort as your mouth adjusts to the device. During this time, you should eat soft, cool foods and take over-the-counter pain relievers as necessary.

Your orthodontist will first use an elastic or metal band to begin the spacing process. The band goes between your teeth and applies a gentle pressure that separates them slightly. Once the elastic or metal spacers create enough space, your orthodontist will install a more permanent device made of metal or acrylic. Fixed spacers can only be removed by the orthodontist, minimizing the risk of loss or damage.

Spacers require attentive care to ensure they stay in place and deliver successful results. Be sure you or your child refrain from picking at the spacers or pushing them out of alignment. Certain foods can also move your spacers, so avoid sticky items like caramel.

Brush regularly with special attention to the teeth around your spacers. If you have elastic spacers, don’t floss between them, as you could move the devices out of place. You can floss normally with permanent metal or acrylic spacers.