Separators

Separators are tiny elastics that we place between the teeth in order to create a small space. This space is usually needed to make the band fit more easily, and once in place, it’ll be more comfortable (with less pressure) for you.

You will probably feel pressure on your back teeth, especially while chewing your food. Allow a couple of days for the pressure to disappear. Pain relievers, such as Advil or Tylenol, taken as directed, can help to ease the discomfort.

Please follow our recommendations to prevent your separators from falling out:

• Avoid sticky food such as bubble gum, jujubes, toffee, etc.
• Don’t play with them with your tongue or your fingers.
• Don’t floss between the teeth where a separator is placed and only brush gently in this area.

Even if you follow these instructions, separators can easily fall out once the space is made. If any of your separators fall out, call us right away in order to schedule an appointment to replace them. However, if the separators only fall out the day before your appointment, you should just arrive 20 minutes early on the day of your appointment, and we’ll replace them then.