A Leap Beyond Traditional Methods: A Case Report on the Horizontal Loop Distal Shoe
Aditi Gupta1, Brahmananda Dutta2, Kanika S Dhull2
1Pediatric Dentistry, Kalinga Institute of Dental Sciences, Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, IND.
Cureus
|June 6, 2024
Summary
A modified distal shoe space maintainer with horizontal loops successfully preserved space after tooth 85 extraction in a pediatric patient. This innovative approach ensured the proper eruption of the permanent mandibular first molar (tooth 46).
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Dental Materials Science
Background:
- Space loss following premature primary tooth extraction can impede permanent tooth eruption.
- Distal shoe space maintainers are crucial for maintaining arch length in young children.
- Traditional designs may require frequent adjustments, posing challenges in clinical management.
Observation:
- A four-year-old male presented with a painful, infected primary mandibular molar (tooth 85) with significant bone resorption.
- Extraction of tooth 85 was indicated, requiring a space-maintaining appliance.
- A modified distal shoe space maintainer featuring integrated horizontal loops was selected for fabrication and placement.
Findings:
- The modified distal shoe space maintainer was successfully fabricated, cemented, and monitored.
- At 24 months post-placement, the permanent mandibular first molar (tooth 46) showed clinical signs of successful eruption.
- Radiographic and clinical assessments confirmed effective space maintenance and normal development of the permanent successor.
Implications:
- Incorporating horizontal loops into distal shoe space maintainers offers enhanced adjustability and clinical versatility.
- This modification provides a reliable method for preventing space loss and guiding permanent tooth eruption.
- The technique represents an innovative advancement in managing edentulous areas in pediatric dental patients.
