The effect of fiber-reinforced composite versus band and loop space maintainers on oral and levels in saliva.

Background: Orthodontic bands have been shown to alter oral microbial flora that lead to convert caries-free patients to moderate or high caries risk individuals.

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of conventional band and loop space maintainers versus fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) resin space maintainer on the salivary cariogenic microflora (Lactobacillus and Streptococcus mutans) in children over a period of 6 months.

Materials And Methods: The study sample was divided equally into two groups: Group A: 25 patients received FRC (INFIBRA: Reinforcing ribbon, Bioloren, Italy) space maintainer and Group B: 25 patients received band and loop space maintainers.