PATIENT SATISFACTION TOWARD TWO OF POLYMERIC CAD /CAM FIXED FUNCTIONAL SPACE MAINTAINERS

Abstract

Aim of the study: The purpose of this study was to compare two distinct polymeric materials
employed as posterior fixed functional space maintainers in terms of patient satisfaction using
computer-aided design or computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM).. Methods: Thirteen children
with premature bilateral loss of the first primary molar were chosen for a randomized controlled split
mouth clinical experiment to compare two different polymeric materials employed as CAD/CAM
posterior fixed functional space maintainers in terms of patient satisfaction.. They were assigned
according to the type of material used into group (1)polyether ether ketone (PEEK) and group
(2)polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). Assessment was done through questionnaire using a 5. point
Likert-type scale. Data were statistically analyzed between the paired sides using Wilcoxon Signed
Rank test at P<0.05 level of significance. Results: There were significant increase in satisfaction to
PEEK compared to PMMA sides in all items included in questionnaire: Color ,Shape ,feasibility to
use brush , ability to eat and overall satisfaction. Conclusion: PEEK and PMMA CAD/CAM space
maintainers represent esthetic alternatives to conventional space maintainer with superior patient
satisfaction for PEEK space maintainer.