An elongated cord segment is inserted into a mouth. The elongated cord segment comprises at least one non-absorbent food-grade material. The elongated cord segment having a cross-sectional shape consisting of convex surfaces, and a uniform density. The elongated cord segment is positioned to cause separation between orthodontic hardware and at least one of the following: cheek tissue inside the mouth, or lip tissue inside the mouth, without the elongated cord segment contacting the orthodontic hardware.
An elongated cord segment comprises at least one non-absorbent food-grade material. The elongated cord segment comprises a uniform density. The elongated cord segment comprises a first shape, mechanically configured, when fitted in a mouth of a user, to cause separation between orthodontic hardware and at least one of: cheek tissue inside the mouth, and lip tissue inside the mouth. The elongated cord segment comprises a first length.