How Space Maintainers Can Help Your Children’s Teeth

If your children are losing baby teeth too early, they may need a space maintainer. A space maintainer is a dental device that helps to keep the spaces between teeth open until permanent teeth come in. This can help to prevent crowding and crooked teeth. If you are concerned about your children’s teeth, please call our office for a consultation. To learn more about space maintainers, read on! 

What are Space Maintainers?

Space maintainers help hold space for permanent teeth. Your child may need one if he or she loses a baby tooth prematurely, before the permanent tooth is ready to erupt. If a primary tooth is lost too early, adult teeth can erupt into the empty space instead of where they should be. When more adult teeth are ready to come into the mouth, there may not be enough room for them because of the lost space. To prevent this from happening, the dentist may recommend a space maintainer to hold open the space left by the missing tooth.

Why Do Some Children Lose Teeth Prematurely?

There are many reasons why a child may lose teeth prematurely. Infection, injury, and genetics can all play a role in tooth loss. If your child is losing teeth too early, the dentist will want to investigate the cause and find a solution. In some cases, a space maintainer may be all that is needed to prevent further problems. Common reasons children lose teeth before they naturally should include:

• Tooth decay
• Injury to the mouth
• Gum disease
• Infection
• Crowding and malocclusion of teeth (when teeth are not straight)

How They Work

There are many different types of space maintainers. Some work by keeping the primary tooth in place while the permanent tooth erupts. Others hold the space open until the permanent tooth is ready to come in. The type of space maintainer your child needs will depend on the location of the lost tooth and when the permanent tooth is expected to erupt.

Space maintainers are usually made of metal or plastic and are bonded (attached) to the teeth next to the empty space. They are usually not visible when your child smiles. The type of space maintainer your dentist recommends will depend on several factors, including:

• The age of your child
• Which tooth is missing
• When the permanent tooth is expected to come in
• How long the space maintainer will be needed
• The type of space maintainer that is best for your child will be discussed during your consultation.
• Types of Space Maintainers

Different Types of Space Maintainers

• Band and Loop Space Maintainer: This type of space maintainer is usually used when the back teeth (molars) are lost. It consists of a metal band that is cemented to the back tooth and a wire that loops around the adjacent teeth.
• Lingual Arch Space Maintainer: This type of space maintainer is used when the lower front teeth are lost. It consists of a metal wire that goes around the back of the lower teeth. 
• Buccal Tube Space Maintainer: This type of space maintainer is used when the front teeth are lost. It consists of a metal or plastic tube that is cemented to the cheek side of the adjacent teeth.
• Crown and Bridge: This type of space maintainer is usually used when one or more primary teeth are lost in the front of the mouth. It consists of a fake tooth (pontic) that is attached to a metal band. The pontic takes the place of the missing tooth and the metal band is cemented to the adjacent teeth.
• Removable Space Maintainer: This type of space maintainer can be taken out and put back in as needed. It is usually made of plastic and fits over the teeth next to the empty space.

Your dentist will discuss the best type of space maintainer for your child during your consultation.

How long Will my Child Need a Space Maintainer?

The length of time a space maintainer is needed will depend on several factors, including:

• The age of your child
• Which tooth is missing
• When the permanent tooth is expected to come in

In most cases, a space maintainer will be needed until the permanent tooth comes in. Once the permanent tooth erupts, the space maintainer will need to be removed. In some cases, the space maintainer may need to be worn for a longer period of time. Your dentist will discuss the best plan for your child during your consultation.

Contact Li’l Sunshine Smiles Today

If your child is in need of a space maintainer, contact Li’l Sunshine Smiles today. Our experienced team will work with you to ensure your child receives the best possible care. We offer a variety of space maintainers and will work with you to find the best option for your child. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!