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A Simplified Technique for the Fabrication of Esthetic and Functional Space Maintainers in Pediatric Dentistry
Luciana Duarte Caldas1, Anne Vitória de Jesus Ramos2, Luísa Schubach da Costa Barreto3
1Dentistry Department, State University of Paraíba (UEPB), Campina Grande, Paraíba, Brazil.
Introduction:
Premature loss of primary molars remains a frequent clinical problem in pediatric dentistry and may lead to space loss, occlusal disturbances, and the need for future orthodontic intervention. Conventional space maintainers, such as the band-and-loop appliance, are effective in preserving arch length but do not restore occlusal function or esthetics.
Objectives:
This case report describes an easy and practical technique for fabricating esthetic-functional space maintainers without the need for silver or laser soldering during the laboratory phase, eliminates the need for orthodontic wire and without the use of CAD-CAM technology.
Clinical Technique:
A 4-year-old child presented with extensive carious destruction, irregular distal root resorption and furcation involvement of the mandibular right first primary molar, for which extraction was indicated. Radiographic evaluation revealed that the permanent successor was at an early stage of development, justifying the need for space maintenance. A fixed esthetic-functional space maintainer was fabricated using the anatomy of the child's own primary tooth as a guide. Clinical and radiographic follow-up at 12 months demonstrated satisfactory space preservation and stable occlusion.
Conclusions:
This simplified, low-cost technique represents a practical alternative for pediatric dentists seeking to restore function and esthetics while maintaining space during the mixed dentition period.
