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Distal Shoe Indication — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModeratePaediatric DentistryDistal Shoe IndicationNDEB AFK

The 'distal shoe' space maintainer is specifically indicated in which clinical scenario?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: E — Premature loss of the mandibular second primary molar before eruption of the first permanent molar

The distal shoe space maintainer is the only space maintainer indicated when the second primary molar is lost prematurely BEFORE the first permanent molar has erupted. It consists of a band on the adjacent primary tooth with an intragingival metal extension (blade) that extends subgingivally into the alveolar ridge to guide the erupting first permanent molar into its correct position. Once the permanent molar erupts sufficiently, the distal shoe is converted to a band-and-loop or lingual arch. No other space maintainer can guide an unerupted tooth.

Reference: Dean – McDonald and Avery's Dentistry for the Child and Adolescent, 11th ed., 2021