When a primary tooth is lost earlier than expected, the surrounding teeth can begin to shift, creating challenges for incoming permanent teeth. At Naranja Pediatric Dentistry, we’re dedicated to providing space maintainers that support healthy development and help prevent future dental complications.
What Is a Space Maintainer?
A space maintainer is a custom dental device designed to preserve the space left by a missing baby tooth. It gently holds neighboring teeth in place, giving the permanent tooth enough room to come in correctly.
The appliances can be fixed (cemented in place) or removable, depending on the child’s age, oral health, and specific needs.
Why Would a Child Need a Space Maintainer?
A space maintainer is typically recommended when a baby tooth is lost earlier than it should be due to injury, severe decay, or an extraction.
Using a space maintainer helps preserve the natural spacing and guides the development of the adult tooth, reducing the risk of crowding, bite problems, or more complex orthodontic issues.
To determine whether space maintenance is necessary, our dentist and team will perform a thorough examination and take x-rays to evaluate timing, positioning, and overall development.
Benefits of Space Maintainers
- Keep surrounding teeth from shifting into open spaces.
- Guide permanent teeth into the correct position as they erupt.
- Reduces the need for braces or corrective procedures.
- Helps maintain normal oral function during development.
- Offers a simple and affordable way to avoid more complex treatment.
How Long Does a Child Need to Wear a Space Maintainer?
The appliance stays in place until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt naturally. As a result, the timeline varies depending on age and dental growth patterns.
We monitor progress during regular checkups to make sure everything is moving in the right direction and remove the appliance at the appropriate time.
How to Help Your Child Care for Their Space Maintainer
- Avoid giving them sticky or hard foods like gum, caramel, or hard candy that can dislodge or damage the appliance.
- Encourage gentle, thorough brushing, especially around the space maintainer, to keep the area clean and free of plaque.
- Contact us if they mention discomfort or if the appliance seems loose or out of place.
- Keep up with regular dental visits so we can monitor progress and make any needed adjustments.
