Effectiveness of traditional band and loop space maintainer vs 3D-printed space maintainer following the loss of primary teeth: a randomized clinical trial

Bhagyashree Thakur, Anuj Bhardwaj, Alexander Maniangat Luke, Dian Agustin Wahjuningrum

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

This study evaluates the efficacy of 3D-printed band and loop space maintainers (3D-BLSMs) to mitigate concerns caused by early primary tooth loss in children when compared to their conventional equivalents. Over 9 months, 62 participants aged 6 to 12 years participated in a randomized clinical study. This study evaluated their failure rates (de-cementation, debonding, solder breakage, loop breakage, band breakage, and abutment tooth fracture), gingival health, and patient overall satisfaction. Random assignments were made to place the participants in two groups: traditional band and loop space maintainers or the 3D-BLSMs. The findings show that at 9 months, 3D-BLSMs provided significantly higher survival rates (77.4%) than conventional maintainers (51.6%, p < 0.01). Gum inflammation was mild in both groups, highlighting the need for good oral hygiene. In both groups, patient satisfaction exceeded 90%. Although there was some pain at first with 3D-BLSMs, this eventually subsided and aesthetic preferences disappeared. There were no negative consequences noted, and both groups needed ongoing dental treatment. In conclusion, with excellent patient satisfaction in both groups, 3D-printed space maintainers offer greater long-term durability in reducing dental concerns following early primary tooth loss.

Original languageEnglish
Article number14081
JournalScientific Reports
Volume14
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2024

Keywords

  • 3D printing
  • Early tooth loss
  • Gingival index
  • Patient satisfaction
  • Space maintainers

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