Orthodontic separators

Orthodontic separators or “spacers” are round rubbery loops that are placed in between your teeth by your orthodontist before you start your orthodontic treatment. The purpose of placing separators is to create room in between your teeth so that orthodontic appliances can be placed on your teeth.

Here are all the important things you need to know about your separators:

1. They are either blue or white in color. You can easily identify them by looking in the mirror
2. They usually need to stay in your mouth for about 5-7 days.
3. When you bite down, you might have a “chewy” or “rubbery” feeling. That is absolutely normal.
4. You might feel a little bit of discomfort or pain within a day or two after separators are placed in between your teeth. If you feel any pain, you can take Tylenol or whatever pain medication you usually take.
5. It is perfectly fine to brush everywhere. Also make sure you keep flossing, but do not floss where the separator has been placed.
6. It is a good idea to count the separators when you are about to leave the orthodontist office. Then count them again every night before you go to bed to make sure they are all in place.
7. Avoid chewy or sticky food while the separators are in your mouth, as they might displace or fully remove your separators.