AI Summary & Key Takeaways
AI InsightConclusion: The successful use of space maintainers for the premature loss of primary tooth space is achieved by regular follow-ups with the patient’s parents, patient cooperation, and proper space maintainers and choice of material.
📌 3 Key Takeaways
Abstract
Aim: This retrospective study investigated the survival rate and clinical performance of space maintainers fitted in 50 patients aged from 6-11 years in the Department of Pediatric Dentistry at Selçuk University, Faculty of Dentistry between 2016 and 2019. Methodology: Sixty-one subjects were included in the study. The clinical examination included performing the gingival index (GI) and the plaque index. The values of the indexes were determined and compared, and the failures of retainers were recorded and analyzed in terms of survival. Results: Follow-up loss occurred in 18% of 61 space maintainers. A total of 10% of the evaluated 50 space maintainers had failed due to breakage. By using the Kaplan–Meier method, the estimated mean survival time for space maintainers was 13 months. Lingual arches had the lowest mean survival time of 12 months. Band and loops and removable partial dentures had a similar probability of survival. A significant decrease was observed in the time-dependent evaluation of the means of plaque and gingival indexes; however, no significant difference was found between space maintainer types. Conclusion: The successful use of space maintainers for the premature loss of primary tooth space is achieved by regular follow-ups with the patient’s parents, patient cooperation, and proper space maintainers and choice of material.