Braces are one of the best solutions for people who have misaligned teeth. Most people know what braces are, and what they are used for. But, many people do not know that they can provide maximum benefit when used in conjunction with spacers for teeth.

Knowing how spacers can be beneficial is mandatory for undertaking the entire orthodontics procedure. It also prepares you mentally for the things to come.

When Do You Need Spacers for Braces?

Spacers are installed between your teeth before an orthodontic procedure. The most common use of spacers is on the molars to create some room between the teeth. To apply braces, the dentist needs to attach a molar band.

It is a circular metal ring that surrounds and grips the molar. The band acts as an anchor for the brace line. If you have enough space between your teeth, the band may be applied directly; no need for spacers. However, like most people, you will probably need spacers to create enough of a gap between your teeth.

Spacers gently push the teeth by applying constant pressure. It is important to note that spacers may be applied both before and after the braces are installed. In some cases, they may be used to create small adjustments in tooth positioning.

Types of Spacers

Spacers come in two types of configurations, metal, and rubber. The rubber spacer is the most commonly used variant. Depending on your needs, your dentist will choose the appropriate material.

Metal Spacers

They are firmer and less flexible than their rubber counterparts. This makes them ideal for resisting the compressing force exerted by your teeth. They may be installed in addition to your braces.

Your dentist will measure if you need metal spacers based on your teeth and your response to the treatment. Metal spacers are usually worn for longer periods as they are more secure and less prone to moving about. Unlike a rubber spacer, metal variants have the shape of an elongated oval with a small circle attached to the side.

Rubber Spacers

They are soft and flexible. Their malleable nature allows them to be compressed while also pushing back just enough to create a space between the teeth. These will typically be installed before you get braces. You may need to wear them for a few days, up to a couple of weeks. Most people will be treated with rubber spacers. Your dentist may stretch and adjust these as necessary to get the right fit.

How Spacers Are Applied?

The application of spacers is very simple. The dentist will string floss with the help of a rubber band, and place it between the person’s teeth. Some of these spacers consist of tiny springs that put pressure on the teeth so that they move a little apart.

The process for applying spacers is very simple and painless. The patient may experience a little soreness and pain due to the pressure but it goes away with the help of recommended medicines.

Do Spacers Cause Discomfort?

The level of discomfort caused by spacers depends on the space available between the person’s teeth. It means that the level of discomfort experienced by every individual is different. If a person has very little to no space, spacers can cause constant pain.

However, the level of pain is tolerable. Spacers may not hurt in the beginning but they start to hurt gradually after some time has elapsed. When a person with spacers is eating, he may experience some pain due to spacers. On very rare occasions, it is seen that spacers may cause damage to the gum resulting in bleeding and swelling.

Is It Possible To Eat Normally with Spacers?

Of course, a person can eat with spacers without experiencing any difficulties. However, it is advisable you should avoid eating tough and sticky foods. The spacers between your teeth will move if they are nudged with enough force. For this reason, it is better to consume soft foods. Avoid things like candies, popcorn, or caramel. Anything that can get stuck between the teeth is going to create a problem. As you will only need to wear spacers for a short while, this change in diet should not create a major inconvenience.

The Post Treatment Scenario

The maximum time duration for spacers is two weeks. A patient is not required to use them after that. The orthodontist will take the spacers off. Once they are off, the braces will be put in place.

The Final Word

If you want your teeth to be perfectly aligned and beautiful, spacers are the first step towards the achievement of this goal. The best thing about them is that you are not required to wear them for a long period. The only reason why you need spacers is that they prepare your teeth for the braces that will be put there.

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