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Comparison of fit accuracy between conventional and CAD/CAM-fabricated band-loop space maintainers
1Department of Pedodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Istanbul Okan University, Istanbul, Turkey.
Aim:
The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the band fit of metallic band-loop space maintainers fabricated by conventional and 3D printing technologies for clinical applications.
Design:
Sixteen digital intraoral impressions were selected, and resin models were printed with a 3D printer. Forty band-loop space maintainers were fabricated (20 each for both the conventional and digital groups). To evaluate the band fit of conventional and CAD/CAM-fabricated space maintainers, cement space was visualized with low-viscosity condensation silicone material on resin models. Digital evaluation was carried out using dual scan method by superimposing two scans of resin models covered with or without a silicone layer on the abutment tooth. The mean quadratic deviation (root mean square, RMS) was calculated. The RMS values between the groups were evaluated with Student's t test. Statistical significance was set at p < .05.
Results:
No statistical significance was found between the conventional and digital groups (p = .56).
Conclusions:
Within the limitations of this study, the band fit of conventional and CAD/CAM-fabricated space maintainers had no difference. Future research into CAD/CAM-fabricated appliances from different perspectives such as fracture strength and patient comfort is warranted.
