Space Maintainers for Kids - Protecting Your Child's Smile
Did your child lose baby tooth too early? Don’t worry! Our space maintainers are the solution. Safeguard your child’s future smile.
What is a space maintainer?
Space maintainers for kids are custom-made dental appliances designed to hold open the space left by a prematurely lost baby tooth. Think of them as little guardrails for your child’s teeth, keeping everything properly aligned until the permanent tooth is ready to emerge naturally.
These devices are particularly important because baby teeth do more than just help children eat and speak clearly—they serve as natural guides for permanent teeth.
When Does Your Child Need Space Maintainers?
Not every early tooth loss requires a space maintainer. Your pediatric dentist will evaluate several factors, including:
Location of the Missing Tooth
Back teeth (molars) are more likely to need space maintainers because surrounding teeth tend to shift more readily in these areas. Your dentist will assess which tooth was lost and its role in maintaining proper spacing.
Critical FactorYour Child's Age & Development
If the permanent tooth is close to erupting—typically within six months—a space maintainer may not be necessary. X-rays help determine how far along the permanent tooth is in its development.
Timing MattersWhich Tooth Was Lost
Some baby teeth are more critical for maintaining proper spacing than others. Your dentist will evaluate whether the specific tooth that was lost plays an essential role in guiding permanent teeth into position.
Tooth-SpecificCondition of Surrounding Teeth
Healthy neighboring teeth are better able to support a space maintainer. Your dentist will perform a thorough examination to ensure the surrounding teeth are strong enough to anchor the appliance effectively.
Support SystemTypes of Space Maintainers at Greenwoods Pediatric Dentistry
At Greenwoods Pediatric Dentistry we offer a range of spacers to help your child regain healthy teeth
Band and Loop Space Maintainers
The most common type of fixed space maintainer. A metal band fits around a tooth next to the gap, with a loop that keeps the space open for the permanent tooth.
Distal Shoe Space Maintainers
Used when a second baby molar is lost before the permanent molar erupts. This appliance helps guide the permanent tooth into the correct position.
Lingual Arch Space Maintainers
Used on the lower jaw when multiple teeth are missing. A wire runs along the inside of the teeth and connects molars to maintain spacing.
Transpalatal Arch Space Maintainers
Used in the upper jaw, connecting molars across the roof of the mouth to keep proper spacing for permanent teeth.
Protect Your Child's Smile Today!
Don’t wait to address dental damage or decay—early treatment is often simpler. Our team at Greenwoods Pediatric Dentistry Centre is ready to help restore your child’s healthy smile.
