Effectiveness of Distal Shoe Space Maintainers for First Permanent Molar Eruption: A Systematic Review.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Premature loss of the second primary molars can result in arch space loss and later malocclusion. Distal shoe space maintainers (SMs) are used to guide the eruption of the permanent first molars, although their clinical effectiveness remains under-evaluated.

Objective

We aimed to assess the clinical effectiveness and complication profile of distal shoe SMs in paediatric patients following premature loss of second primary molars.

Methods

A PRISMA-compliant systematic review was conducted, with protocol registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251101518). Searches in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library identified clinical studies evaluating distal shoe appliances in children aged ≤6 years. Risk of bias was assessed using ROBINS-I and JBI tools.<

SUBMITTER: Marques-Martinez L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12731900 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature