An elongated cord segment comprises at least one non-absorbent food-gradematerial. The elongatedcord segment comprises a uniform density. The elongated cord segment comprisesa first shape,mechanically configured, when fitted in a mouth of a user, to cause separationbetween orthodontichardware and at least one of: cheek tissue inside the mouth, and lip tissueinside the mouth. Theelongated cord segment comprises a first length.
