Duration of elastomeric separation and effect on interproximal contact point characteristics

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics
• Dental Materials Science

Background:

• Traditional week-long elastomeric separator use for dental band placement causes patient discomfort.
• Investigating shorter separation durations and their effects is crucial for improving patient experience.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the minimum elastomeric separator duration needed for an interproximal space exceeding 0.16 mm.
• To analyze interproximal space and dental contact point changes for 24 hours post-separator removal.
• To compare the mechanical properties of separators from different manufacturers.

Main Methods:

• Thirty adult subjects had elastomeric separators placed between the mandibular second premolar and first molar for 1, 4, 12, or 24 hours.
• Interproximal space and tightness of dental contact point (TDCP) were measured after separator removal for up to 24 hours.
• Mechanical behaviors of separators from six manufacturers were evaluated.

Main Results:

• An interproximal space greater than 0.16 mm was achieved after 12 and 24 hours of separation (P <.001).
• A significant negative correlation existed between baseline TDCP and measured space at removal (R = -0.59 to -0.63; P = .001).
• Biphasic viscoelastic recovery to baseline tightness occurred within 24 hours (82%-95%), with low inter-manufacturer variation (9%).

Conclusions:

• A separation time of 12 hours is sufficient for adequate interproximal space creation.
• Patients needing separator replacement due to loss should arrive 3-4 hours prior to their banding appointment.
• The rapid tissue recovery supports the biological safety of elastomeric separators, irrespective of the brand.