Futuristic dental separators creating space between teeth.

Unlocking Space: A Modern Guide to Dental Separators

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Lena Voss in Health & Wellness August 2025 • 4 min read.

"Everything you need to know about separators in dentistry, from traditional methods to today's innovations."


In orthodontics and various dental procedures, creating space between adjacent teeth is essential. This process, known as separation, facilitates the fitting of bands for orthodontic treatment and allows for other necessary interventions. Historically, dental separators were developed to achieve this separation, initially using simple materials like brass wires.

Early separators, though functional, presented challenges. Brass wires [1], one of the first materials used, were followed by rubber separators [2]. These early methods were often based on clinical needs rather than rigorous scientific evidence, highlighting the practical, problem-solving nature of early dental innovations.

The space within the periodontal ligament (PDL), which averages about 0.25 mm, is crucial. Attempting to fit a 0.16 mm thick orthodontic band without adequate separation can compress the alveolar bone, leading to hyalinization in the PDL. This compression can cause acute pain and discomfort, hindering normal oral functions. Recognizing these issues, Kesling [3] introduced a more refined wire separator in 1957, using a 0.016" stainless steel Australian wire that better conformed to the biological requirements of the periodontium.

The Evolution of Dental Separators: From Brass Wires to Modern Marvels

Futuristic dental separators creating space between teeth.

The evolution of dental separators reflects ongoing efforts to improve patient comfort and clinical outcomes. Early brass wire separators, while pioneering, had significant drawbacks. One major issue was the unpredictable force they exerted, which could lead to discomfort and complications. The wires, often 0.20" thick, could cause occlusal interferences and lacerate oral soft tissues due to their bent pig-tail design.

Elastomeric separators represented a step forward, benefiting from advancements in material science and manufacturing. These separators saw modifications over time, enhancing their performance and reducing patient discomfort. The introduction of the orthodontic separator loop by Krupp [4] and the use of hydrophilic materials by Hansen and Tzou [5] aimed to improve the functionality and biocompatibility of these devices.

  • Brass Wire Separators: Early solution but unpredictable force and tissue laceration issues.
  • Elastomeric Separators: Improved comfort and functionality through material science advancements.
  • Hydrophilic Materials: Enhanced biocompatibility and reduced discomfort.
Ideally, a dental separator should provide rapid, effective separation without causing undue discomfort or pain. It should create sufficient space for proper band selection and adaptation while remaining securely in place between appointments. Minimizing gingival slippage and ensuring radiopacity for easy detection are also critical. However, early separators often failed to meet these criteria comprehensively, leading to the development of newer, more advanced designs. The "2 in 1" Self-Secured Orthodontic Spring Separator, also known as the Kansal Separator [6], represents one such advancement.

The Future of Dental Separators

Dentistry's reliance on separators will continue as long as maintaining individual tooth integrity remains essential. Whether for orthodontic banding, reproximation, or contouring restorations, separators play a vital role. The variety of separators available today addresses many current clinical needs. However, with the rise of digital dentistry and advanced prosthetic and rehabilitation techniques, the future calls for even more innovative separator designs. These new designs should aim for quicker, more comfortable separation methods, potentially reducing treatment times and enhancing patient experiences.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

Everything You Need To Know

1

What are dental separators and what is their purpose?

Dental separators are devices used in dentistry, primarily in orthodontics, to create small spaces between teeth. This separation is crucial for fitting orthodontic bands or performing other dental procedures that require access between adjacent teeth. Historically, materials like brass wires were used, but modern separators include elastomeric and spring-based options, each designed to efficiently and comfortably create the necessary space.

2

What is the significance of the periodontal ligament (PDL) in the context of using dental separators?

The periodontal ligament (PDL) is the soft tissue structure that attaches the tooth to the alveolar bone within the jaw. Maintaining the integrity of the PDL is critical during orthodontic procedures. For example, when fitting orthodontic bands, adequate separation is required to avoid compressing the alveolar bone and causing hyalinization in the PDL, which can lead to pain and discomfort.

3

What were some of the earliest types of dental separators and what were their limitations?

Early dental separators, such as brass wire separators, were among the first methods used to create space between teeth. Although pioneering, they had drawbacks like unpredictable force exertion, which could cause discomfort and lacerations to the soft tissues in the mouth. These wires could interfere with occlusion, highlighting the need for more refined and biocompatible separation methods.

4

How have elastomeric separators improved upon earlier separator designs?

Elastomeric separators represent a significant advancement over earlier methods like brass wires. They are made from materials that offer improved comfort and functionality due to advancements in material science. Modifications to elastomeric separators, such as the introduction of the orthodontic separator loop and the use of hydrophilic materials, have further enhanced their biocompatibility and reduced patient discomfort.

5

What are the key characteristics of an ideal dental separator?

Ideal characteristics of a dental separator include the ability to provide rapid and effective separation without causing undue discomfort or pain. It should create sufficient space for proper band adaptation while remaining securely in place between appointments. Additional critical characteristics include minimizing gingival slippage and ensuring radiopacity for easy detection. Newer designs like the "2 in 1" Self-Secured Orthodontic Spring Separator aim to meet these criteria more comprehensively.

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