Fiber Reinforced Composite Space Maintainers Versus Band and Loop Space Maintainers – A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND Premature loss of primary teeth requires orthodontic intervention to prevent the occurrence of malocclusions in the future. The most preferred way to maintain this space is by using space maintainers. Band and loop maintainers are the most commonly used fixed space maintainers. Despite being the most effective, it has several disadvantages. Hence, the objective of this review was to compare the efficiency between fiber reinforced composite (FRC) space maintainer and the conventional band & loop space maintainer. METHODS A systematic review was performed. Electronic and hand search retrieved 260 records, 246 were screened. The intervention and outcomes were assessed in the study included for systematic review. RESULTS Seven studies were included in this systematic review. These studies compared the fiber reinforced composite and the conventional band & loop and provided results about their clinical efficacy and patient satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS Despite being one of the gold standard appliances for space maintenance, the conventional band and loop space maintainers have multiple disadvantages. The major disadvantages included failure of the appliance due to cement loss and bending of the wire. Out of the 7 articles included in this study, 6 of the articles concluded that the FRC space maintainers are as effective as the conventional band and loop. FRC space maintainers proved to be time effective, more aesthetic, has better patient acceptance and is easier to fabricate. Hence, fiber reinforced composite space maintainers can be used as a more aesthetic and effective alternative to the conventional band and loop space maintainers if proper technique and protocol is followed. KEY WORDS Space Maintainers, Band and Loop Space Maintainer, Fiber Reinforced Space Maintainer, Interceptive Orthodontics, Orthodontics

3D Printed Band and Loop Space Maintainer: A Digital Game Changer in Preventive Orthodontics

Premature loss of primary molars often leads to loss of arch circumference in the primary and mixed dentition. It can lead to malpositioning and even impaction of permanent tooth, if not prevented. Space maintainers in preventive orthodontics, are imperative in maintaining arch integrity. Band and loop space maintainers are indicated whenever there is premature loss of primary molar. The conventional band and loop space maintainer is most routinely fabricated, but poses certain limitations. Three-dimensional (3D) printing in digital dentistry is one of the major developments in dentistry. It replicates the dental cast in the most accurate forms. This allows for supreme precision and minimal human errors. Besides decreasing the laboratory procedures, it has the least chance of failure or breakage. The current case report discusses 3D printing technology for the fabrication of band and loop space maintainer, which can revolutionize preventive orthodontics for children.