What is the difference between Orthodontic Metal Bands & Spacers?

Question

Okay so friday i had an emergency appointment because i was in pain. Well i only had my top and bottom front spacers in. They decided to take out my back spacers and put in metal bands and put the rest of the braces on. I don't see what the difference is between the two? And why do the metal bands hurt bad? And how long do i have to wear them for? The whole time i have braces on?

Answer 1

Spacers are soft rubber bands that separate your teeth from each other. When there's enough space your orthodontist can fit the metal bands in your back molars (ow, the bite stick!) So the rubber vs. metal is definitely the difference. If the metal bands hurt, they may be either too small or irritating your gums. You should check with the orthodontist if the pain doesn't clear up in a few days; otherwise it's just that you're not used to it. It only took me three days to even notice the braces were on. No sweat.

Good luck and hope this helps!