Precision in Practice-Clinical Performance and Acceptance of 3D Band and Loop Space Maintainer: A Randomised Control Trail

Aim: To evaluate the efficacy, longevity, gingival health, and patient acceptance of a 3D-printed PEEK band and loop space maintainer compared to the conventional stainless-steel band and loop space maintainer. Materials and Methods: Fifteen children aged 4 to 8 years, each requiring bilateral space maintenance due to early loss of primary first molars, participated in this randomized controlled trial. Each child received a conventional stainless-steel space maintainer on one side and a 3D-printed PEEK space maintainer on the other. The appliances were assessed over a six-month period for, gingival health, and patient acceptance. Results: The 3D-printed PEEK group consistently demonstrated better gingival health scores and higher patient acceptance throughout the follow-up period. Conclusion: Over the six-month evaluation period, 3D-printed PEEK space maintainers demonstrated superior gingival health outcomes and higher patient acceptance than conventional stainless-steel band and loop appliances.