s10-finals-Space Maintainer Flashcards
(40 cards)
What is the core purpose of a space maintainer?
To preserve space after premature tooth loss until the permanent successor erupts.
Why are primary teeth critical for arch development?
They guide eruption of permanent teeth and maintain arch length.
What happens if space loss is untreated?
Teeth drift, causing malocclusion, impaction, or decay.
List 3 key requirements of an ideal space maintainer.
Maintains space horizontally/vertically, allows eruption, restores function.
Why must a space maintainer be hygienic?
To prevent plaque accumulation and caries.
What does “non-reliance on patient cooperation” imply for design?
Prefer fixed appliances over removable ones for uncooperative children.
How does a space maintainer restore esthetics?
By replacing missing teeth (e.g., with acrylic teeth in partial dentures).
Classify space maintainers by retention type.
Fixed, removable, semi-fixed.
What defines a “functional” space maintainer?
Restores chewing ability (e.g., partial dentures).
Give an example of a semi-fixed appliance.
Distal shoe (fixed component with tissue extension).
For a single tooth loss with an intact distal abutment, which appliance is used?
Band and loop.
When is a stainless steel crown and loop preferred over a band and loop?
If the distal abutment is pulp-treated.
What is the main drawback of a distal shoe?
It impedes tissue healing (no epithelialization around the vertical bar).
In which scenario is a distal shoe indicated?
When there is no distal abutment tooth.
Can a band and loop be used in both arches?
Yes, maxilla and mandible.
How does chronological age differ from developmental age in treatment planning?
Chronological is actual age; developmental assesses tooth eruption stage via X-rays.
When does space closure begin after premature tooth loss?
Within 6 months.
What intervention is needed if space has already closed?
Use a space regainer before placing a maintainer.
How does bone cover affect eruption timing?
Permanent teeth erupt faster if covering bone is destroyed.
How much bone must a permanent tooth penetrate monthly?
~1 mm every 6 months.
Which appliance is used for multiple missing teeth in the mandible with intact molars?
Passive lingual arch.
What are the 3 positioning requirements for a lingual arch wire?
Contact mandibular incisors’ cingulum, rest on primary molars’ gingival third, middle third of banded molars.
When is an active lingual arch indicated?
To regain lost space or correct minor tooth movement.
For bilateral maxillary molar loss, which fixed appliance uses a palatal button?
Nance appliance.
