Spontaneous Space Closure After First Permanent Molar Extraction
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Radiographic Prognostic Factors that determine spontaneous space closure after extraction of the First Permanent Molar (FPM)
IRAS ID
125278
Contact name
J Noar
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
UCLH
Research summary
The first permanent molar (FPM) also known as the six year old molar is one of the first adult teeth to erupt. It can, in specific circumstances, be poorly developed and as it is in the mouth at a young age, can have a higher risk of dental decay. It has been thought that the removal of a very decayed or abscessed FPM at a specific age may allow the developing second permanent molar (SPM) to come through in its place and reduce any future orthodontic (brace) treatment (Cobourne et al., 2004). There is, however, little evidence for this. This study aims to see whether age, or other variables, can determine whether the SPM will replace the FPM with any predictability. This will contribute to our understanding of the factors that determine this eruption pathway and allow clearer information to be given to the patient and parent of possible sequelae following the extraction of the FPM. Any significant findings may also used to develop a toolkit to aid clinicians in determining the likelihood of full, natural, space closure of the first molar space.
REC name
West Midlands - Black Country Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
13/WM/0398
Date of REC Opinion
30 Sep 2013
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion