Spacers for Teeth: What You Need to Know | Orthodontist for Kids

If you’re getting spacers for teeth, there are a few things you need to know before you begin. Not everyone will need spacers, but if you do, it’s important to prepare and understand the process.

In this article, we will describe what spacers are, what they’re for, and how to prepare for receiving them. We will also cover the basics of taking care of your teeth while you have spacers.

What Are Spacers for Teeth?

With orthodontic treatment, spacers are pieces of metal or rubber placed in between your teeth. They have very small and only measure about a millimeter in width.

Spacers for teeth create more space for the brackets that braces use. So if you have crowded teeth or don’t have enough space between them, spacers can help make room.

Preparing for Spacers

During your consultation, your orthodontist will let you know if spacers are necessary for your treatment. If your orthodontist recommends spacers, the next step is to schedule an appointment to have them placed.

Once your spacers are in, you may feel some discomfort. However, this is common and will subside within a few days. You can take Tylenol and other over-the-counter pain medications if you have difficulty eating or feel uncomfortable.

What You Can Eat with Spacers

To avoid pain and soreness, eat cold and soft foods while you have spacers for teeth. This can include foods like soup, applesauce, mashed potatoes, ice cream, and yogurt.

Avoid certain foods with spacers, such as:

• Hard or sticky candy
• Chewy food like beef jerky
• Popcorn
• Nuts
• Gum

Essentially, avoid anything that is hard to chew or bite down on. Spacers and braces can make it difficult to eat these types of foods. Therefore, it’s best to steer clear until you have completed orthodontic treatment.

Maintaining Oral Health with Spacers

Resume brushing your teeth even if your mouth is sore in certain areas. Spacers will not move, so you don’t have to worry about them coming loose.

Use a soft toothbrush and gently brush around them. You may need a water flosser to help clean your teeth and gums.

During this time, ensuring your teeth and gums remain healthy will help reduce the risk of developing cavities. Plus, practicing good oral care habits will set you up for success once you have braces.

Final Thoughts

Spacers for teeth are small pieces of metal or rubber placed between your teeth to create room for braces. You may experience some soreness and discomfort while you have spacers. However, this is temporary and should go away within a few days.

To ensure your teeth stay healthy with spacers and during orthodontic treatment, brush normally and avoid sticky and hard foods. With proper care, spacers can help prepare you for braces and a beautiful smile.

If you are interested in learning more about spacers for teeth, Dr. Yazji is here to answer your questions. Schedule a consultation at one of our three convenient locations in Brickell, Weston, and Miami. We also offer virtual consultations for orthodontics.