If you’ve just had spacers for braces placed, congratulations—you’re taking an important step toward a healthier, straighter smile! While it’s natural to have questions about “what is the next step after spacers for braces,” knowing what to expect can help you prepare and feel confident about your orthodontic journey.
At Damon Orthodontics, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process.
Key Takeaways
- Preparation is Key: Spacers create the necessary space for orthodontic bands, which serve as the foundation for braces. This step ensures your treatment begins smoothly.
- Damon Braces Advantage: With shorter treatment times, increased comfort, and a nearly invisible aesthetic option, Damon Braces offer a modern solution for orthodontic care.
- Commitment to Routine: Regular orthodontic visits, coupled with proper oral hygiene and dietary adjustments, are essential for successful treatment.
- Aftercare is Crucial: Retainers are vital to maintaining your new smile after braces are removed, whether you choose wire retainers or Invisalign’s Vivera retainers.
What Are Spacers for Braces?
Spacers, sometimes called separators, are small rubber or metal rings placed between your teeth, typically a week or two before your braces are applied. Their main purpose is to create a tiny amount of space between your molars, making room for orthodontic bands or brackets.
These small devices may feel slightly uncomfortable at first, like having food stuck between your teeth. However, any discomfort usually diminishes within a few days.
They are an important part of your orthodontic treatment and play a crucial role in the success of your braces.
Why Are Spacers Needed?
It may seem surprising, but molars are often closely packed together—even for patients experiencing crowding. Spacers make the process of attaching braces easier by creating enough room for bands or other orthodontic components that anchor the braces to your teeth.
Without spacers, applying braces on tightly packed teeth could cause unnecessary discomfort.
Think of spacers as the preparatory phase that sets the stage for your braces to do their job properly.
What Comes After Spacers for Braces?
Now that your spacers are in place, here’s what you can expect for the next steps in your braces treatment.
1. Removal of Spacers
After about 1-2 weeks, spacers are typically removed. During this time, you may feel slight pressure or tenderness in the areas where the spacers were placed.
Don’t worry—this is a sign that they’re working! Once your teeth have created enough space, your orthodontist will take them out at your next appointment.
2. Application of Orthodontic Bands
The space created by the spacers is now ready for orthodontic bands, which are placed around your molars. These are usually made of metal and provide an anchor point for your braces. The bands are snugly fitted and secured with dental cement to ensure they stay in place throughout your treatment.
The fitting process is quick and generally painless.
3. Fitting the Braces
Now comes the big day! After the bands are secured, it’s time for the braces themselves to be applied. At Damon Orthodontics, we specialize in Damon Braces, a state-of-the-art self-ligating system that uses sliding mechanisms instead of elastic ties.
Here’s why Damon Braces are unique:
- Less Friction: Faster tooth movement with greater comfort.
- Shorter Treatment Time: Fewer appointments and quicker results.
- Aesthetics: Damon Clear Braces offer a nearly invisible option.
Alternatively, if you’re using Invisalign aligners or a similar clear aligner system, your orthodontist will prepare and discuss the treatment plan during this phase.
4. Adjustments and Alignments
Once your braces are fitted, the real work begins. Over time, your teeth will gradually shift into their optimal positions.
Regular orthodontic visits will ensure that your treatment progresses smoothly. At these appointments, your orthodontist may adjust the wires or update your aligners if you’re using a clear aligner system.
5. Monitoring Progress
Routine check-ups are a crucial step in your braces treatment. This allows your orthodontist to track your progress and make any necessary adjustments.
These visits are typically scheduled every 6-8 weeks during treatment.
6. The End Goal – A Perfect Smile!
After completing your braces treatment, you’ll be fitted for retainers to ensure that your teeth stay in their new positions.
Whether you choose traditional wire retainers or Invisalign’s Vivera retainers, wearing them as instructed is essential for maintaining your beautiful new smile.
Tips to Care For Your Teeth After Getting Braces
After your braces are applied, you’ll need to adapt your oral care routine to ensure optimal results.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Brush and floss thoroughly to prevent plaque build-up around the brackets or wires.
- Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage your braces.
- Use the wax provided by your orthodontist to relieve any discomfort from brackets or wires.
Not sure how to adjust your diet or care routine? Our professional team at Damon Orthodontics is always here to help.
Why Choose Damon Orthodontics?
At Damon Orthodontics, we take pride in offering the most advanced orthodontic treatments, including Damon Braces, Invisalign, and Spark Clear Aligners.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Shorter Treatment Times: Damon Braces require fewer adjustments, meaning fewer appointments and faster results.
- Expert Care: Dr. Clay Damon and Dr. Paul Damon bring decades of expertise and innovation to your treatment.
- Comfort and Aesthetics: Our treatments are designed to minimize discomfort and offer discreet options like Damon Clear Braces.
Whether you need early orthodontic treatment, braces, or clear aligners, our team will guide you through every step of the process to help you achieve your dream smile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are spacers for braces made of?
A: Spacers are typically made of elastic or sometimes metal. Elastic spacers look like small rubber bands, while metal spacers resemble tiny springs.
Q: How long do spacers stay in your mouth?
A: Spacers usually remain in place for about 1-2 weeks. This duration allows enough time for your teeth to create the space needed for orthodontic bands.
Q: Can I eat normally with spacers?
A: It is best to avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods while spacers are in place, as they could dislodge or damage the spacers.
Q: What are spacers for braces?
A: Spacers are small devices placed between your back teeth to create space for orthodontic bands, which serve as anchors for braces.
Take the Next Step Today
Now that you know “what is the next step after spacers for braces,” you can feel confident about what lies ahead. Whether you’re preparing to get braces or you’re already on your way to your dream smile, Damon Orthodontics is here to support you every step of the way.
Need more guidance? Schedule a consultation with us to learn more about how we can help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile! Don’t wait—your perfect smile is just a call away.