Therapeutic Management in Early Loss of Primary Anterior Teeth

Abstract

The aim of this study was to present two different therapeutic options of space management in the anterior region. Material and methods: The working protocol for the fabrication of a removable and a fixed space maintainer was described for a clinical case of a child who had prematurely lost all upper temporary incisors because of advanced cavities. A silicone key was used to position the teeth in the acrylic base. Results and discussions: Restoring the integrity of the dental arches has a positive impact on the patient's psychological welfare. Compared to the removable space maintainer, the use of a fixed space maintainer eliminates the patient’s compliance factor, even though both are well tolerated. Conclusions: Since the loss of anterior teeth does not cause as much space deficit as in the posterior region, restoring the integrity of the dental arches is essential in preventing tongue interposition and the onset of other bad oral habits.