Does My Child Need a Space Maintainer?

Baby teeth normally fall out when adult teeth are ready to erupt from the gums. In the event of injury or tooth decay, sometimes baby teeth are removed before the adult teeth are ready. In this situation, you may want to consider getting your child a space maintainer.

What Is a Space Maintainer?

A space maintainer is a custom-made oral appliance that aids in the development of your child’s smile. It’s put in between gaps in teeth after a baby tooth falls out. This is a preventive measure to stop issues like the jawbone not developing properly or teeth shifting out of place.

What Are the Benefits of a Space Maintainer?

A space maintainer can have huge benefits for a child. When a child loses a baby tooth too soon, it could cause other teeth to shift towards the gap and cause problems for adult teeth to grow in. A space maintainer ensures the gap stays open for adult teeth to erupt from the gums. If you don’t get a space maintainer, the adult teeth could erupt misaligned. Space maintainers can prevent the need for orthodontics in the future, or at least make it easier to straighten crooked teeth.

When Would My Child Need a Space Maintainer?

Each child is different, and a pediatric dentist can examine the dental situation and make a recommendation. Generally speaking, space maintainers are needed for baby teeth that are missing for more than a short time before the permanent tooth is ready to emerge. Our pediatric dentist can determine if the adult teeth are growing in or not.

Preventive Dentistry at Tots to Teens Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

At Tots to Teens Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we’re dedicated to providing high-quality care for all of your child’s dental needs. Please schedule an appointment with us if it’s time for a routine visit or you have any concerns. We look forward to taking care of your child and ensuring they have a healthy and happy smile.

Contact Us

Categorised in: Kids Dental Care, Kids Teeth, Orthodontic Tips, Preventive Dental Care