Background: Premature loss of primary molars often leads to malocclusion, space loss, and functional disturbances.While conventional fixed space maintainers like band and loop (BL) preserve arch space, they fail to restore function.The double band and pontic (DBP) design introduces a functional component aimed at improving masticatory efficiency and parental satisfaction.Aim: To compare and correlate the clinical and radiographic success of fixed functional (DBP) and nonfunctional (BL) space maintainers over 3, 6, and 12 months.Materials and methods: A split-mouth, double-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted in 30 children aged 7-9 years requiring bilateral extraction of mandibular primary second molars.One side received BL, and the other DBP.Parameters assessed included gingival health (Le and Silness index), survival rate, space loss (study models), chewing efficiency (peanut crunch test), parental acceptance (Likert scale), and eruption interference (radiographs).Data were analyzed using SPSS v 20.0.Results: DBP demonstrated significantly better chewing efficiency, higher parental acceptance, and superior space maintenance with reduced appliance failures compared to BL.However, DBP was associated with slightly increased gingival inflammation and minor eruption interference in 13.8% of cases at 6 and 12 months.Discussion: The DBP appliance provides functional and esthetic benefits while effectively maintaining space.Though slightly more plaque retentive, its advantages in stability and mastication justify its clinical use.It marks a shift toward multifunctional space maintenance in pediatric dentistry. Conclusion:The DBP appliance emerges as a promising, functionally superior alternative to conventional BL, combining esthetics, chewing efficiency, and durability in pediatric space maintenance.
Priyanka et al. (Fri,) studied this question.