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 Yelp: Orthodontics in Roswell, GA.
A preventive dentist promotes long-term oral wellness by focusing on early detection, regular checkups, and proactive measures to protect teeth and gums from disease. By prioritizing prevention, you can avoid many dental issues before they even begin. Explore some of the most frequently asked questions about preventive dentistry, gain valuable insight that can help you…
If you have recently gotten a sleep apnea diagnosis, you will want to learn about the treatment options and how they work. CPAP devices are the most popular, but dental appliances are also a non-surgical option to consider. Continue reading to learn about the effectiveness of oral devices for sleep apnea treatment.Dental appliances for treating…
Partial dentures are a great way to improve your smile, oral health, and ability to function by replacing missing teeth. It is helpful to have a full understanding of what partial dentures are and why they are often the more preferable treatment solution for patients to decide if treatment is right for you.This review defines…
A general dentist often recommends a dental sealant for patients who want to take extra preventative measures to ensure the health and safety of their teeth. A sealant can be utilized if they feel like your molars and other teeth with deep grooves are at risk of suffering damage. If you consider a dental sealant…
A preventive dentist promotes long-term oral wellness by focusing on early detection, regular checkups, and…
If you have recently gotten a sleep apnea diagnosis, you will want to learn about…
It is helpful to have a full understanding of what partial dentures are and why…
A general dentist often recommends a dental sealant for patients who want to take extra…
Implants restore the full function of the mouth and revitalize smiles.
If you want to improve your smile’s appearance, a smile makeover is a way to…
