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VOL. 8, ISSUE 3 (2026)
Space regainers in pediatric dentistry: From biological basis to contemporary biomechanics and clinical innovations—A narrative review
Authors
Dr. Savitha Sathyaprasad, Dr. Revanuru Swathi
Abstract
Premature loss of primary teeth may disturb
the developing dentition and result in migration, tipping, rotation or bodily
displacement of adjacent teeth, thereby reducing the space available for an
unerupted permanent successor. The magnitude and pattern of space loss are
variable and depend on the tooth lost, arch involved, dental age, eruption
status of the permanent teeth, existing crowding, molar relationship and time
elapsed after tooth loss. When intervention is undertaken before clinically
significant space loss, a space maintainer may preserve the residual space; once
space has already been lost, active space regaining may be indicated. 123
This narrative review integrates the biological basis of space loss, Kronfeld’s
concept of space closure, determinants and timing of space loss, diagnosis and
space analysis, indications and contraindications, biomechanical principles,
conventional fixed and removable space regainers, molar-distalization
approaches, NiTi-based systems and contemporary multifunctional designs. The
evidence base remains limited: a systematic review identified only two studies
specifically evaluating space regainers and judged the evidence very low
certainty. 1 Recent innovations are largely supported by case
reports and technical descriptions rather than comparative trials. Accordingly,
appliance selection should be individualized according to the tooth movement
required, anchorage, eruption stage, overall occlusion and patient cooperation.
The ultimate objective is not merely to increase a measured space but to
restore a favorable eruption pathway, establish appropriate tooth position and
maintain the recovered space until the permanent successor establishes a stable
occlusion.
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Pages:336-348
How to cite this article:
Dr. Savitha Sathyaprasad, Dr. Revanuru Swathi "Space regainers in pediatric dentistry: From biological basis to contemporary biomechanics and clinical innovations—A narrative review". International Journal of Dental Sciences, Vol 8, Issue 3, 2026, Pages 336-348
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