SpaceCHQR

The SpaceCHQR device is a series of medical grade stainless steel gauges of specific thicknesses which allow both patients and dental health care professionals to measure the distances between teeth down to a 10 micron (0.01mm) tolerance.

Gauge Widths:

• The Green Gauge is 50 microns(0.05mm)
• The Amber Gauge is 40 microns (0.04mm)
• The Red Gauge is 30 microns (0.03mm)

This is a particularly useful device as it verifies: (1) if too much space exists between teeth (a food trap) or (2) if there is insufficient space to allow for tooth movement during orthodontic treatment.

▼Clinical indications

Checking for Food traps with SPACE CHQR: The patient simply slides the gauge down between the teeth: if the largest, the Green Gauge (50 microns) can enter, then the patient is often aware that an irritating and potentially problematic space exists that needs attention in the clinic. Ideally, only the 30 micron gauge should be able to fit in between teeth. 

Clear Aligner Orthodontic use for SPACE CHQR: SPACE CHQR is invaluable as it verifies the existence of sufficient space for tooth movement and it is particularly useful as the patient can confirm that this critical space exists before each aligner changeover. If insufficient space exists, the patient is encouraged to remain in the same aligner and consult with the dental health care professional to then create sufficient space before proceeding with the aligner changeover. The outcome is that collisions between teeth are avoided and significant time wastage from changing to ill-fitting next aligners with little chance of movement is negated.

◄Patient Instructions for SpaceCHQR

Before you use the SPACE CHQR, make sure you have brushed and flossed your teeth. Ensure there is no food or foreign body between your teeth.

Food Traps: If you are using the device to verify if too much space exists between teeth and you are getting food trapped, slide the Green Gauge between the teeth if you can. If it fits easily then contact your dentist. If the Green Gauge does not fit, try the Orange Gauge. This amount of space may also indicate that the area needs to be examined professionally.

Clear Aligner Orthodontics: When using the SPACE CHQR at the start of clear aligner orthodontics you will note that most areas of contact between your teeth will only allow the Red Gauge to enter. This is normal: you will note however that as you progress through your treatment and room is being created, the Orange and Green Gauges can enter.

Once you have used 4-5 trays, before you change over into any new aligner, keep measuring the space between your teeth. If at any stage that you struggle to get the Orange Gauge in between, inform your dental health care professional as the teeth may be jammed and your teeth won’t move.

Towards the end of your clear aligner treatment you should notice that the spaces become tighter. This is ideal as you really only want the Red Gauge to fit in and minimise the spaces.

Inserting the gauge:
Using your bathroom mirror or similar, slide the SPACE CHQR gauge in between any 2 teeth using your opposing jaw, teeth or finger support to insert the gauge.
Take note of the amount resistance during insertion and between the teeth contact points. During verification, start with Green if it does not fit then use Amber CHQR and finally Red.

The Simple Green Rules

• If you aren’t having orthodontic treatment, you want your contact points (spaces) between teeth to be minimal. So you really don’t want the Green Gauge being able to fit in.
• If you are having clear aligners to move your teeth, for most of the treatment (except for the very start and very end) you do want the Green Gauge being able to fit in.

◄DAILY CARE AND MAINTENANCE of the SPACECHQR

• After you finish using the SPACE CHQR, immediately rinse SpaceCHQR with water, shake off excess water or let it air-dry before you put it away and store in the SpaceCHQR box along with your succeeding Aligner packs.
• To help prevent damage to the SpaceCHQR, avoid unnecessary insertion when not indicated.
• DO NOT use excessive force to insert or remove between between teeth]
• DO NOT use this device in any other way other than to check the contact points between teeth.
• DO NOT use this device to clean your teeth.
• Consult with your doctor if you have any issues using this device as indicated.

◄Storing your SpaceCHQR

The SpaceCHQR can be kept in the plastic box it was packaged in.
This will help protect them from loss and damage.
Keep your SpaceCHQR with your succeeding Aligner Packs and ensure it is readily available before changing to your next aligners stage.

◄FAQs

Q: Will the SpaceCHQR be painful?
A: Pain should not be felt while using this product. The SpaceCHQR is a series of medical grade stainless steel gauges that have been highly polished on the edges to protect your gums . There maybe some soreness due to tooth movement but contact your doctor if you feel any sharp pain during insertion of the SpaceCHQR.

Q: How do I know if the contact points between my teeth is tight?
A: The SpaceCHQR should be able to be inserted and removed passively. DO NOT FORCE THE GAUGE BETWEEN THE TEETH. If you find the gauge does not fit between any of the teeth, move to a finer gauge.

Q: What do I do if the Green, Amber and Red does not go in between the teeth?
A: Ensure to brush and floss your teeth first. If you still cannot get the Red gauge in call your doctor.

Q: What do I do if there is food or foreign object that prevents the gauge from going in the proximal contact points?
A: Use floss to clear the contact points to remove. If you cannot correct this with floss, call your doctor.

Q: What do I do if the gauge is bent and cannot be inserted?
A: The stainless steel gauge can be distorted during use. If it cannot be inserted due to damage, call your doctor and replace the device.

Q: What do I do if the gauge is broken or torn?
A: Do not use the SpaceCHQR if the gauge is torn or broken as this may cause injury. Call your doctor and request for a replacement device.