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. 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.
Orthodontic spacers are also known as separators. They are elastic rubber bands or small metal pieces that go between teeth, specifically the back 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 tightly together, specifically the back molars, which is quite common in patients who require 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 of 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. Additionally, 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 to our Roswell office today to learn more about our services or to schedule a consultation. Our team is looking forward to hearing from you.
Request an appointment here: https://www.roswelldentalsmiles.com or call Roswell Dental Smiles at (770) 238-1209 for an appointment in our Roswell office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Google: Orthodontics in Roswell, GA.
Patients looking for a permanent tooth replacement can benefit from dental implants. Implants create a foundation for permanent tooth replacements that look and feel natural. To achieve this, a general dentist will surgically insert them where natural tooth roots are found, right in the jawbone. Taking the healing period seriously helps the jawbone recover faster,…
A dental implant replaces a single tooth with a metal post, abutment, and crown. General dentists recommend prompt tooth replacement because even the loss of one tooth can disrupt a smile's alignment and function. Though there are other effective options, dental implants offer clear advantages for good candidates.Losing only one tooth, even if the space…
A partial denture or dental implant can replace a missing tooth. Research shows that most people prefer implants to dentures. Awareness of when to choose an implant over a denture can help prepare you for your treatment. Here are the details on when you must choose a dental implant over a denture.A dental implant is…
Dental implants offer a permanent solution for missing teeth. They look, feel, and function like natural teeth, making them a popular option for those looking to restore their smile. However, while dental implants are durable and designed to last a lifetime, they require proper care to ensure their long-term success.Similar to natural teeth, dental implants…