Normally your teeth fit snugly, one against the other. We often find we have to move those teeth, particularly the back teeth (molars), apart to make room for your braces. To make it easier for you, before placing your fixed appliances, we may have to make space between your back teeth so the bands are more easily placed around those teeth.

Small springs and little plastic modules, shaped like a small doughnut, are two types of separators we use. Once in place they gently move certain teeth slightly apart to allow us to accurately place bands at your next appointment.

Yes, we know this will cause you some temporary soreness but that goes away in a few days. Don't despair!

After a few days your teeth will feel comfortable again as your teeth get accustomed to being slightly apart. That tiny space created between them means your bands can be fitted easily and put in the place that best aids your future correction.

If you lose a separator, call us and come in so we can replace it. We need to hold that space we have created until your next appointment in order to place your bands in the most comfortable manner for you.