Children's Dentistry
Space Maintainers
When a baby tooth is lost early, a space maintainer can help hold the gap open so the permanent tooth underneath has room to come in.
Why baby teeth hold space
Baby teeth do more than help children chew. Each one holds a place in the arch for the permanent tooth developing beneath it. When a baby tooth is lost earlier than expected, because of decay, an injury or an extraction, the neighbouring teeth can drift or tip into the gap.
If that space closes, the permanent tooth may come in crooked, become blocked, or crowd the teeth around it. A space maintainer is a simple appliance that helps keep the gap open until the permanent tooth is ready.
Does every lost tooth need one?
Not always. Your dentist will consider:
- Which tooth was lost, since back teeth tend to matter more for spacing than front teeth
- Your child's age and how far along the permanent tooth is, often checked with an X-ray
- How much room there is in the arch already
- How the bite and neighbouring teeth are developing
If the permanent tooth is expected to come in soon, your dentist may recommend monitoring instead. Only an exam, usually with an X-ray, can confirm the best option for your child.
Types of space maintainers
Most space maintainers are fixed, meaning they are cemented in place and cannot be taken out by your child. A common design uses a small metal band around a neighbouring tooth with a wire loop that reaches across the gap. When back teeth are missing on both sides, a wire that runs along the inside of the arch may be used instead.
In some cases a removable appliance, similar to a retainer, may be an option. Your dentist will recommend a design based on which teeth are missing and your child's age.
What to expect
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Assessment
Your dentist examines the area, takes an X-ray if needed, and talks with you about whether a space maintainer is recommended.
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Fitting and impressions
A band is fitted and an impression of the teeth is taken so the appliance can be custom-made.
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Placement
At a second visit the appliance is checked for fit and cemented into place. No freezing is usually needed.
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Check-ups
We check the appliance at regular visits to make sure it is secure and still doing its job.
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Removal
Once the permanent tooth begins to come in, the space maintainer is removed.
Caring for a space maintainer
Your child may feel some pressure or notice the wire with their tongue for the first few days. Most children adjust quickly. Brush carefully around the band and wire every day, and avoid sticky or very hard foods such as toffee, gum and ice, which can loosen or bend the appliance.
Encourage your child not to push on the wire with their tongue or fingers. If the space maintainer feels loose, bent or is lost, call us at 780-944-2828 so we can check it.
Children's Dentistry
Talk to us about early tooth loss
Call 780-944-2828 or book an appointment online.