In vitro evaluation of a new space maintainer

The aim of this study is to produce newly designed space maintainer and to evaluate the effect of the appliance which needs no impression or no laboratory process, can be adjustable for individual patient and upright teeth with some modifications, testing in vitro. Truflex Ni-Ti Open Coil Springs .014" x .036", Truflex Ni-Ti Distalizing Springs .010" x .045" ve 3M Nitinol Open Coil Springs 0.033" were placed on the space maintainer as a force generating element. These open coils were activated on the prototype and force values determined. Based on the data obtained, statistical analysis and the effectiveness of the appliance were determined. The mean force value of Truflex Ni-Ti Open Coil Springs group was 67,52 g, the mean force value of Truflex Ni-Ti Distalizing Springs group was 54,11 g and the mean force value of 3M Nitinol Open Coil Springs group was 69,08 g. This difference is statistically significant. As result of this study, the efficacy of space maintainer has been proven in-vitro. Further clinical studies are required. Key Words: space maintainer, premature loss of primary molars