ABSTRACT
Space reduction after the premature loss of the second primary molars is one of the important factors affecting the occurrence of malocclusion, often increasing the demand for orthodontic treatment. It has great significance to select and apply appropriate appliances to maintainthe space soon after the premature loss of the second primary molars. The space should be maintained until the adjacent teeth and the successors erupt successfully. This review summarizes the selection and clinical application of the space maintainer for the premature loss of the second primary molars in different periods, to improve dentists′ awareness of the importance of space maintainers and to provide advises for clinical choices.
ABSTRACT
Background: The inclinations and movements of teeth after premature loss of second primary molar cause narrowing in the space of second permanent premolar. Objectives: (1) To evaluate the degree of space loss after premature loss of second primary molar due to teeth inclinations and movements. (2) To assess the effectiveness of the fixed space maintainer and fixed space regained. Subjects and method: This was a prospective trial study. Records of patients were analyzed to evaluate degree of the space loss due to teeth inclinations and movements, fixed space maintainer was used for cases have adequate space and fixed space regain for cases do not have. Results:Loss of space was 6.42% \xb1 0.62 mm and 3.78 \xb1 0.71 mm when second primary molar was extracted before and after first permanent molar erupt, respectively. In maintaining space, 92.9% of excellent results, 7.1% of good and 0% of failure. In regaining space, 88% of excellent results, 8% of good and 4% of failure. Conclusion: After premature loss of second primary molar, adjacent teeth incline and move resulting in loss of space, the degree of space loss depended on timing of tooth extraction. The study shows the effectiveness of fixed space maintainer and fixed space regain in maintaining and regaining spaces.