Some orthodontic procedures require the placement of a tiny rubber band, a separator, between two teeth to allow these teeth to spread apart (separate) from each other. This space between two teeth allows us to fit a metal ring, a band, around a tooth.

The separators may cause your teeth to become sore as a result of the movement of the affected teeth. Tylenol or Advil is almost always sufficient to manage any resulting discomfort.

You should not eat anything sticky or chewy, as this may pull the separators from between the teeth. Also, do not floss between the particular teeth which have separators since this flossing is likely to remove the separators accidentally.

As the teeth separate, a separator can come out more easily than when the separator was originally placed between the teeth. If a separator comes out, you need to determine if space remains between the teeth where the separator was located. You do this by flossing between these teeth with a double-thickness of dental floss. If the contact between these teeth is tight using the double-thickness of floss, then call the office because there is not enough space between the teeth. We would then need to insert a replacement separator. If, instead of being tight, the floss were to go between the teeth easily, then there is enough space at that particular time. However, teeth will change positions quickly, so be sure to check daily that this space is maintained for us to fit the metal band at your next appointment.