What does it do?
An elastic ring temporarily creates a little space between teeth.
← All explanationsOrthodontic separator
Why are separators used before braces?
An orthodontic separator is a small elastic ring placed temporarily between two teeth. It creates a narrow space so that, for example, a metal band for a fixed brace can be fitted. The treating orthodontic team decides whether separation is needed and when the ring should be removed.
For training & practice ↓
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Space between neighbouring teeth
The ring sits at the contact between two teeth. Its elasticity can move the teeth slightly apart. This prepares space for a band; it is not a treatment for a misaligned bite on its own.
Understanding pressure
Pressure and tenderness when chewing can occur after placement. Severe, increasing or unexplained pain needs advice from the treating team. If a ring is no longer visible, that alone does not show where it has gone.
Until the next appointment
Do not pull on the ring or put it back yourself. Continue careful brushing but avoid flossing the contact containing the separator. Tell the treating team if a ring comes out.
Read the full explanation
Space between neighbouring teeth
The ring sits at the contact between two teeth. Its elasticity can move the teeth slightly apart. This prepares space for a band; it is not a treatment for a misaligned bite on its own.
Understanding pressure
Pressure and tenderness when chewing can occur after placement. Severe, increasing or unexplained pain needs advice from the treating team. If a ring is no longer visible, that alone does not show where it has gone.
Until the next appointment
Do not pull on the ring or put it back yourself. Continue careful brushing but avoid flossing the contact containing the separator. Tell the treating team if a ring comes out.
Notes on the teaching images
- Fictional teaching illustration, not a patient case or treatment result.
At a glance
Who places it?
The clinical team as part of a planned orthodontic treatment.
When should I ask for help?
If it is lost, pain is severe or increasing, or the ring’s location is unclear.
Knowledge in motion
Explained in 36 seconds.
Three steps. No audio.
Each scene can also be selected manually.
Silent educational film with German on-screen text and simplified teaching images. Not a patient case or a promised treatment outcome. The full English explanation is available as text.
Often confused
Separator or ligature?
A separator temporarily creates space between teeth. A ligature holds an archwire in a bracket; they should not be confused or exchanged by the patient.
Quick answers
How long does a separator stay in place?
This depends on the planned treatment and next appointment. Attend the agreed review or fitting appointment. Do not decide to leave a separator in for longer without advice.
What if a separator falls out?
Contact the treating orthodontic team. They can decide whether and when it needs replacing. Do not try to push it back between the teeth yourself.
Can I eat and brush with separators?
Yes, teeth still need cleaning. Sticky or very chewy food may pull a separator out. Softer food may feel more comfortable initially if there is pressure; follow your team’s instructions.
Are separators the coloured rings on brackets?
No. Separators sit between teeth to create space. Small rings around a bracket may instead hold the archwire in place. Other elastics connect parts of an appliance and have a different purpose again.
At the practice
For the appointment
You can bring this question to your appointment:
Why is separation needed for my treatment, and when should the separator be removed?
For a problem with an existing separator, contact your treating orthodontic team first.
Arrange an assessmentAppointment selection at DoctolibLearning layer for training & practiceUnderstand terminology and deepen knowledge
- Interproximal contact
- The area where neighbouring tooth crowns touch.
- Separation
- Temporarily creating a small space for a planned treatment step.
- Orthodontic band
- A metal ring that can be fitted and secured around a tooth.
Make the distinction
A separator temporarily creates space between teeth. A ligature holds an archwire in a bracket; they should not be confused or exchanged by the patient.
Sources and context
Editorial research: . General information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Teaching illustrations are simplified and do not depict a patient case.