<Table> <Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> This article may need to be rewritten entirely to comply with Wikipedia's quality standards . You can help . The discussion page may contain suggestions . (May 2009) </Td> </Tr> </Table> <Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> This article may need to be rewritten entirely to comply with Wikipedia's quality standards . You can help . The discussion page may contain suggestions . (May 2009) </Td> </Tr> <P> Orthodontic separators (commonly known as spacers) are rubber bands or metal appliances used in orthodontics . Spacers are placed between the molars at the second orthodontic appointment, before molar bands are applied . Spacers are either circular rubber bands about a centimeter in diameter placed between top and bottom molars; there may be 1 - 12 spacers applied or small metal spring clips (spring separators) that push the molars apart . The spacers stay between the teeth for one to two weeks and move the teeth apart slowly until they are far apart enough so that orthodontists can fit a tooth brace or molar band in between them or fit an expander with rubber rings . </P> <P> Spacers are usually used to put spaces in between teeth before braces are established . It can be agitating or painful, but patients are often warned not to pick at them or they will fall out . They are usually rubber, but sometimes they can be metal . They can be used when a patient's teeth are too close together . Although they are sometimes very painful, they are usually only in place for one to two weeks . Spacers can also cause toothache and gum pain because of the constant pressure against the patient's teeth . The gaps that the spacers create are necessary to apply certain appliances or braces . There are two common types of expanders used after the spaces have been made . One, very primitive, model is a metal bar that has a key used to tighten . Secondly, and more contemporary, there is an expander that is two "L" shaped metal rods, attached at the molars . Brackets fit against the edges . It is secured with a spring in the middle that applies pressure . </P>

How long do spacers have to stay in