What is considered the best space maintainer for dental use?

In the context of dental space maintainers, a pulpectomised primary tooth is regarded as one of the best options for maintaining space after the loss of a primary tooth. This procedure involves the complete removal of the pulp tissue from the tooth, followed by filling the root canal space with a biocompatible material. This approach not only preserves the tooth's natural structure but also helps maintain the essential arch length and alignment, crucial for the development of permanent teeth.

Using a pulpectomised primary tooth retains the natural occlusion and prevents the surrounding teeth from drifting into the space left by the missing tooth, which is vital for proper dental alignment and overall oral function. When the tooth is functioning well, it can aid in maintaining space until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt, making it a highly effective long-term solution.

Other options, while useful, might not be as effective in all scenarios. For example, the band and loop maintainer is commonly used but may not be as advantageous since it requires placing an additional appliance in the mouth. Similarly, a lingual holding arch is also beneficial for specific cases but might not be the ideal choice in every situation. A pulpotomy with formocresol, while preserving the vitality of the tooth