Appliances

During orthodontic treatment, certain appliances may be used to help your teeth and jaws move into the correct positions. Below is what to expect if spacers, expanders, elastics, or bite-correcting appliances are part of your treatment plan.

What Are Spacers and Why Are They Used?

Spacers, also called separators, are small rubber bands placed between teeth to create space so an orthodontic band can be fitted, most often around back teeth.

You may notice tenderness or pressure for a few days after spacers are placed. This is normal. Over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol or Advil can help, and softer foods may be more comfortable during this time.

While you have spacers:

• Avoid sticky foods, including gum
• Brush normally around the spacers
• Do not floss between teeth that have spacers
• If a spacer falls out, contact our office so we can let you know whether it needs to be replaced

For some patients, spacers are the most uncomfortable part of treatment. The good news is that this stage is temporary, and the discomfort typically improves quickly.

How Do Orthodontic Expanders Work?

Expanders are used to gently widen the upper jaw and create space for proper alignment. If you have an expander, it’s important to follow the turning instructions provided by Dr. Murphy and our team.

Turn the expander at the same time each day to keep expansion consistent. Insert the key fully into the appliance and push it back as directed to complete the turn.

If you experience significant pain or pressure, stop turning the expander and contact our office right away.

Helpful tips while wearing an expander:

• Use orthodontic wax if the appliance rubs or causes irritation
• Rinse with warm salt water during the first few days and as needed
• Brush carefully around the appliance and teeth
• Swish with water or a fluoride rinse to clean the palatal area
• Use a daily fluoride rinse such as ACT, Listermint, or Oral-B

Avoid hard or sticky foods like ice, gum, caramel, taffy, popcorn, and nuts.

As expansion begins, you may notice a space forming between your front teeth. This is expected and temporary. Dr. Murphy will address this as treatment continues.

Why Are Elastics Important During Orthodontic Treatment?

Elastics help move teeth and jaws in ways braces alone cannot. Wearing them exactly as prescribed is essential for efficient treatment and proper bite correction.

Some tenderness is normal during the first few days of elastic wear. This usually improves within a week, especially with consistent use. Rinsing with warm salt water can help reduce soreness.

For elastics to work properly:

• Wear them 24 hours a day unless instructed otherwise
• Remove them only for meals and brushing
• Replace elastics immediately after eating or brushing
• Change elastics at least twice daily, even if they haven’t broken
• Carry extra elastics with you at all times

Part-time wear does not move teeth and can actually increase soreness. Consistent elastic wear plays a major role in treatment speed and final results.

If you run low on elastics, stop by our office or give us a call so we can provide more.

What Is the Forsus Bite-Correcting Appliance?

The Forsus appliance is used to help correct certain bite issues by applying a steady, gentle force to guide jaw alignment. It often reduces or eliminates the need for headgear and may shorten the amount of time elastics are needed.

Forsus appliances:

• Apply continuous, light pressure for effective bite correction
• Are positioned toward the back of the mouth and are not very noticeable
• Are easy to keep clean with regular brushing

The duration of Forsus appliance wear depends on the amount of correction required. Dr. Murphy will monitor progress closely and let you know what to expect throughout treatment.

If you have questions or concerns about any orthodontic appliance, our team at Southern Maine Orthodontics is always here to help.