Separators, or “spacers”, are small metal or rubber rings that are placed between the teeth approximately one week before a band is cemented. A separator creates a small space between two adjacent teeth to allow the band to slip over the tooth. Once adequate space has been made and the band is ready to be cemented in, the separator will be removed. While the separator is in place, flossing of the area or eating sticky, chewy foods should be avoided. These actions can dislodge the separator, making it impossible to place a band on the tooth. If a separator falls out more than a day or two before your appointment, please call the office to have it replaced.