INFLUÊNCIA DO BANDA-ALÇA NA MANUTENÇÃO DE ESPAÇO DO ARCO INFERIOR APÓS A PERDA PRECOCE DE MOLARES DECÍDUOS: UM ESTUDO PILOTO

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the influence of the band and loop space maintainer on space loss after the early extraction of mandibular primary molars in schoolchildren, over a period of 3 months. Materials and Methods: a pilot study of a randomized clinical trial was carried out, with two parallel groups. The sample included 25 children, aged between 6 and 9 years, with clinical and radiographic indication for unilateral extraction of a mandibular primary molar. The patients were divided into Control Group (G1): with no intervention; and Intervention Group (G2): with the installation of the space maintainer. A dental cast was obtained before the extraction procedure (T1) and at the 3-month followup (T2). An evaluator, blinded to the groups and time, performed the established measures in the dental casts. Statistical analysis was performed using Paired Sample T test and Student’s T test in cases of normal data distribution, and nonparametric Wilcoxon and Mann-Whitney tests for non-normal distribution. Results: All participants were classified as Class I, with an overjet of up to 3 mm and a mesocephalic facial pattern. The majority (64%) had a lost second deciduous molar. After 3 months, the G1 lost, on average, 0.75mm more in the linear distance from the extraction space (P<0.05). Conclusion: It was concluded that, although the two groups showed space loss, G1 (without intervention) showed a greater loss of space in the 3-month follow-up period.