Innovation in interceptive orthodontics: Digital space maintainers with CAD/CAM and 3D printing: Bibliographic review

Abstract

Introduction: 3D and CAD/CAM technology has now been widely adopted by most dentists and pediatric orthodontics is no exception. This technology allows orthodontists to create digital dental models, thus facilitating the design and fabrication of orthopedic appliances customized to the specific needs of each patient. Objective: To gather scientific information that describes in detail the management, advantages and disadvantages of using CAD/CAM and 3D technology in the fabrication of space maintainers. Materials and methods: A search was carried out in several databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Springer link, Science Direct and Google Scholar. Fourteen articles that met the inclusion criteria were selected. Results: 10 studies used materials such as polyetheretheretherketone, polymethylmethacrylate and polymer (Trilor), milled to produce space maintainers. Another 3 studies applied titanium powder with addition 3D printing techniques for the same purpose and finally, 1 study used a zirconium block (BruxZir) to manufacture a band by milling. Conclusions: Digital space maintainers (DSM) show comparable results to conventional space maintainers (CSM), with the additional advantage of being more stable and resistant. Although their cost may represent a limitation, further studies and long-term follow-ups are recommended to take advantage of the benefits of technological innovation in the manufacture of space maintainers and improve the quality of patient care.