Clinical evaluation of the loop-design fibre-reinforced composite and the band-and-loop space maintainers

Abstract

PURPOSE : The fibre-reinforced composite space maintainer (FRCSM) has been suggested as an alternative to the band-and-loop space maintainer (BLSM). The aim of this in-vivo study was to evaluate the clinical performance and the reasons for failure of the two types of fixed space maintainers over a six-month period. METHODS : Twenty patients, ranging from 4-9 years old, were selected for this study. They were randomly divided into two groups (n=10) according to the type of space maintainer that was placed. The patients were recalled on a monthly basis for clinical evaluation over a period of six months. The two-sample t-test and the non-parametric Wilcoxon rank sum test were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS : Both groups of space maintainers had a 50% failure rate. The main reason for BLSM failure was bending of the wire with impingement on the soft tissue. The FRCSM failed due to debonding and fracture of the fibre loop. There was no statistically significant difference between the failure rates (P=0.53). CONCLUSION : The clinical performances of both space maintainers were disappointing. Only 50% of fixed space maintainers were still clinically acceptable according to the strict evaluation criteria used. Further research is recommended on the loop-design FRCSM.