Chain’s dual separator

INTRODUCTION

Bonding has become inevitable universal, though banding remains at peak for the control of the molars. Placement of the band requires proper separation. Ideally, orthodontic separators should provide adequate space without causing significant patient discomfort.^[1] Currently, two separators are placed one placed mesially and one distally of the tooth, either of which can be inadvertently dislodged and potentially swallowed, aspirated, or submerged beneath the gingival.

We have developed the Chain’s dual separator,* which allows stabilization of the separator and the separation of both mesial and distal interdental spaces with little risk of dislodgment and harm.

FABRICATION

1. The use of 014” or 016” regular plus Australian stainless steel wire is used to fabricate the chain’s dual separator. A long wire is taken, and the helix is made of 3 mm diameter about 10 mm apart or the mesiodistal width of the molar. At both ends, a Kessling is made on the same wire [Figure 1]

2. The wire is then bent at 90°. The bridge can be adjusted according to the desired mesiodistal width of the tooth [Figure 2]

3. It is then inserted with the help of the helix with No 139 light wire plier as inserting a normal separator one side before another. The bridge is then pulled over the tooth on to the palatal/lingual side as to clear the cuspal interdigitation [Figure 3]

4. The separator is removed in reverse with the removal of the palatal over the occlusal and then each side.

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Figure 1

Helix of 3 mm is made of 10 mm apart and two Kessling are made on both ends of 10 mm

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Figure 2

Both sides of the wire are bent at equal 90°

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Figure 3

Finished appliance inserted on the tooth

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DISCUSSION

The separator is the first step in orthodontics. The separation is essential of the banding of any tooth. Single separator usually gets displaced and looses its function. Making this separator with a single wire and with helix and without any sharp bends adds to the flexibility of the separator, and Australian wire is susceptible to breakage on sharp bends. The flexibility allows easy insertion and removal of the separator. This dual separator stabilizes each other and thus makes the separation more efficient and prevents injury to the patient. A preformed stock can be kept for the patient; only a minor adjustment to the tooth size is required before the use of the separator. This can be made for premolars also.