Assessment of the biomechanical performance of digitally manufactured space maintainers: a finite element analysis.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of band and loop space maintainers, fabricated using digital technologies, and the luting cements used for their fixation, on mesio-distal tooth movement using the Finite Element Analysis method. Additionally, the biomechanical performance of the materials was analyzed by comparing the maximum Von Mises stress distribution. METHODOLOGY: A total of fifteen finite element models were created using combinations of five different band and loop materials (BruxZir, Conventional, Trilor, polyetheretherketone and carbon fiber-reinforced polyetheretherketone) and three types of luting cements: conventional glass ionomer cement, resin-modified glass ionomer cement, and dual-cure resin cement. A vertical force of 70 Newton was applied in the occluso-gingival direction at the band-loop junction in each model. Stress distribution and potential failure zones were analyzed using the finite element analysis method. RESULTS: Among the tested materials, BruxZir exhibited the least amount of displacement and generated the lowest stress on the tooth. It was followed by Conventional, Trilor, and carbon fiber-reinforced polyetheretherketone and polyetheretherketone. Polyetheretherketone showed the highest level of displacement. When comparing luting cements, the resin-modified glass ionomer, which has the lowest elastic modulus, caused the greatest mesial movement. This was followed by the self-adhesive resin cement and the conventional glass ionomer cement. CONCLUSIONS: The integration of digital technologies in pediatric dentistry enables the clinical use of space maintainers fabricated from various advanced materials. However, further clinical studies are necessary to assess the long-term success and biocompatibility of these digital materials.