Comparison between efficacy of four different types of orthodontic separators.

Aim: To evaluate the rapidity and amount of separation of four different types of separators (i.e. Elastomeric separators, Dumbbell separators, Kesling springs and NEET springs) and also the percentage of loss of these separators.

Materials And Methods: The separating effect of 4 different types of separators (i.e. Elastomeric separators, Dumbbell separators, Kesling springs and NEET springs) were assessed for 3 days, and the separated space between molars and premolars were noted separately for three consecutive days. The number and types of lost separators were recorded at the same time. The amount of separation between molars and 2(nd) premolar in each quadrant was measured separately with a leaf gauge (sensitivity 5/100mm) and noted on each day.

Results: Dumbbell separators proved to be the fastest in producing separation and they produced consistently greater amount of separation on all three days.

Conclusions: The Dumbbell separator would be ideal for situations where in rapid separation is needed, and also in cases where in the patient comes with the loss of separators.