question about spacers?

Question

I got spacers on my teeth today, however they only put 8 on the top. I am getting braces on the top & bottom next week, why did they not but spacers on my bottom teeth? I am also getting an expander

Answer 1

Spacers are used to push the teeth apart so the bands will slide on easier. You either have enough space in between your teeth on the lower or....they are placing the expander first and doing the braces at another time, which is usually the way it works. The expander is fixed, or cemented into the upper arch, with bands that attach to the molars and pre molars. I would be inclined to believe the orthodontists is doing the palatal expander first since they don't do both at the same time. There isn't really any sense in placing the lower braces while the upper is being expanded, when it wouldn't be activated yet. If you are concerned about it just call the office and ask, they will tell you. I know, they have you all hyped up and ready to go ahead with them and I know you don't want to postpone it, but you may have to wait on the palatal arch expander to do its work first. It won't take long. Don't worry, you'll be getting them put on soon enough, and then in a rush to get them off! I've seen it happen too many times! Good luck with the ortho treatment and keep thinking how beautiful your smile is going to be when it's all over with!

check out this site, it will show you a picture of one that is in a patients mouth and explain the purpose of the appliance. http://www.braceface.com/Crossbite2.htm

Answer 2

Don't be scared! Lots of people get spacers. It is usually worse than getting braces, because spacers are so darned UNCOMFORTABLE! But they are necessary to help make room for molar bands or whatever. Fortunately the spacers will only stay in for about a week (on average).

Sounds like maybe you're only getting braces done on your top teeth first. This is what they did for me. I had spacers/braces put on the top teeth, then the same for the bottom teeth about 10 days later. They will probably install the expander at the same time as your upper brackets.

I know how scary it is to get all this stuff put into your mouth. Our website has a ton of advice and a really great message board where you can share your fear with others who have been in your situation. Come over and say hello at ArchWired.com.

Answer 3

Expanders suck. I have one. But your bottom teeth might be already spaced out. I only got 4 spacers(2 on top 2 on bottom).

Answer 4

The only reason they put on spacers is so that when they out on the metal bands on your molars, it will be easier and less painful. Sometimes some teeth are already spaced out enough.

Answer 5

You simply may not need them on the bottom. Call and ask if you want to be sure.