Introduction: A combination of Nance and transpalatal arch space maintainers has previously been used for anchorage duringstudied in treatment of Angle's class II cases. However, this appliance hasn't been the subject of any trials as a space maintainer.
Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of the combined Nance/transpalatal arch (N-TPA) appliance compared to Nance space maintainer in maintaining arch dimensions after bilateral premature loss of maxillary primary molars.
Material and methods: Thirty children with bilateral premature loss of maxillary primary molars were randomly allocated into two groups (n=15). The test group received the N-TPA appliance, and the control group received the Nance appliance. Baseline measurements including arch circumference, intermolar width and arch depth were recorded. Participants were followed up to 9 months for re-evaluation.
Results: No statistical significance was found when comparing arch circumference, intermolar width and arch depth. Intra-group comparison of arch depth in the N-TPA group showed a statistical significance at 9 months. Comparison of difference in arch depth measurements from baseline to follow-up time points showed a statistical significance at 6 and 9 months.
Conclusion: Both appliances provided acceptable space maintenance regarding arch circumference and arch width. Statistical significance was found when comparing arch depth measurements, however, further research is necessary to confirm clinical significance.
owever, further research is necessary to confirm clinical significance.