Comparison of Safe-T separators and Conventional Elastomeric Separators for the Amount of Separation, Pain and Gingival Health: A randomized controlled trial

Objectives: The objective of the current study was to compare the amount of separation obtained by two various elastomeric separators, as well as the pain perception and gingival health. Methods: A randomized split-mouth study was performed on 60 patients receiving fixed orthodontic treatment who were put randomly in one of two separator groups (Group 1: Elastomeric separators; Group 2: Safe-T separators). At the end of the 5-day study, the amount of separation was evaluated using a feeler gauge. Qualitative and quantitative pain assessment was performed using a patient-filled VAS (visual analogue scale) score and a questionnaire. Loe and Silness gingival index was used to examine gingival health at the time of placement and removal of separators. Student t-Test was used to compare mean VAS scores and the amount of separation followed by repeated measures of ANOVA and Bonferroni’s post hoc analysis. Chi Square Test was utilized to compare gingival index scores followed by the marginal homogeneity test comparing the 1st and 5th day. Reproducibility of measurements underwent assessment using intra-class correlation coefficients. Results: Greater statistically significant amounts of separation (0.126 mm) was achieved by Safe-T separators than conventional elastomeric separators. Patients experienced maximum pain and discomfort with the use of conventional elastomeric separators. Amount of soft tissue injury and bleeding was greater with elastomeric separators with a mean gingival score of 3. Conclusion: Safe-T separators separate teeth optimally with minimal injury and discomfort to soft tissues, which makes them the better choice for clinicians.