Space Maintainers | Preserving Teeth Alignment

A space maintainer is an orthodontic device that is used to keep the space open in a child's mouth after they have lost a baby tooth prematurely. When a baby tooth is lost too early, either from dental decay or injury, the permanent tooth that is supposed to replace it may not have enough room to properly erupt. This can cause the other teeth to shift into the space, leading to crowding and other dental issues in the future. Our orthodontist can help in the placement and maintenance of a space maintainer and can help your child today.

A space maintainer is typically made of metal or acrylic and is custom fit to your child's mouth. It is designed to hold the empty space open until your child’s permanent tooth is ready to erupt. There are two types of space maintainers: removable and fixed. Both options work well, and our orthodontist will discuss which space maintainer is best for your child during their consultation with us.

In general, a space maintainer is recommended for children who have lost a primary tooth prematurely, before the permanent tooth has erupted. This can occur as soon as your child starts getting their first teeth, however, our orthodontist will evaluate your child's unique situation to determine if a space maintainer is necessary and at what age it should be placed. It is important to follow our orthodontist’s recommendations to ensure proper dental development and prevent future orthodontic issues. By using a space maintainer, you can help ensure that your child's dental health remains strong and healthy.

Placing A Space Maintainer

Before placing a space maintainer, certain pretreatment steps need to be taken to ensure the best possible outcome. The first step in the pretreatment process is a thorough examination by our orthodontist. We will evaluate your child’s teeth and determine if a space maintainer is necessary. Next, we will take impressions of your child's teeth to create a custom-made space maintainer. The impressions are used to create a model of their teeth, which is sent to a dental laboratory to fabricate.

Before placing the space maintainer, our orthodontist will work with your child’s pediatric dentist to improve any dental health issues your child has, such as removing any decay, plaque, or tartar. This is important because the space maintainer needs a healthy foundation to be effective. With proper pretreatment, space maintainers can effectively maintain space between teeth and prevent future orthodontic issues.

It is also important to schedule regular dental check-ups with your child’s pediatric dentist while wearing a space maintainer to ensure that it is functioning correctly and that their teeth and gums remain healthy. With proper oral hygiene habits and regular dental visits, wearing a space maintainer can be a successful way to ensure appropriate teeth alignment and a healthy smile.

Dental Crowns With A Space Maintainer

A dental crown with a space maintainer may need to be used if we need to restore a damaged or decayed tooth while also helping to maintain the space needed for a permanent tooth to erupt. The procedure involves placing a dental crown, also known as a cap, over the damaged or decayed tooth to protect it and restore its functionality. In addition to the crown, a space maintainer is also placed in the gap where the permanent tooth will eventually grow. The crown is typically made of stainless steel and is attached to the space maintainer for optimal support. The crown is then cemented in place to promote stability.

If your child needs a dental crown with a space maintainer, it is important to consult with our qualified orthodontist who can evaluate your child’s specific situation and recommend the best course of treatment. With proper care and maintenance, a dental crown with a space maintainer can help restore the function and appearance of your child’s teeth while also promoting healthy dental development.