Comparative Evaluation of Fiber-reinforced and 3D-printed Space Maintainers: A Comparative Study

fixed and removable designs-has since been developed to maintain arch integrity and support proper dental development.Fixed SMs such as band and loop, crown and loop, distal shoe, and lingual arch are selected based on factors such as the patient's age, dental development, extent of tooth loss, and level of patient cooperation. [7][8]][9] Preventive orthodontics is an essential aspect of Pediatric Dentistry, requiring a specialized skill set and in-depth IntroductIonThe primary dentition is integral to a child's comprehensive physiological and craniofacial development.It is essential not only for functional aspects such as mastication, phonation, and esthetics, but also for preventing deleterious oral habits and ensuring the proper alignment and eruption of the succeeding permanent dentition. 1The physiological exfoliation of deciduous teeth is a key process that allows for the timely and orderly eruption of permanent teeth.However, premature loss of primary teeth can interfere with this process, often resulting in mesial drift of adjacent teeth. 2 Such undesirable movement may compromise arch space, leading to crowding, impaction of permanent successors, and supraeruption of opposing teeth. [3][4]4][5][6] Therefore, maintaining the position and function of primary teeth within the arch is critical for preserving space and ensuring favorable outcomes in permanent dentition development.It is widely recognized that primary teeth serve as natural space maintainers (SMs).In 1941, JC Brauer characterized space maintenance as the process of preserving the space previously occupied by exfoliated or extracted teeth.In response to the challenges posed by premature tooth loss, a wide array of SMs-encompassing both 1-