Short answer
A space maintainer is a small appliance that holds the gap open when a baby tooth is lost early. It keeps nearby teeth from drifting into the space, so the adult tooth has room to come in. A dentist decides whether one is needed after examining your child.
What is a space maintainer?
Baby teeth hold space for the adult teeth that will come in later. If a baby tooth is lost too early, because of decay or injury, nearby teeth can move into the gap. This can leave too little room for the adult tooth. A space maintainer is made to keep that space open.
When might a child need one?
A dentist may suggest a space maintainer if a baby tooth is lost well before the adult tooth is ready to come in. It is not needed every time. The dentist looks at which tooth was lost, your child's age and how the teeth are developing.
Types and how they are fitted
Space maintainers can be fixed in the mouth or removable. Fixed types are usually attached to a nearby tooth. The dentist chooses the type for your child.
- The dentist examines your child's mouth and takes X-rays if needed.
- An impression or scan is taken.
- The appliance is made to fit.
- It is fitted and checked at a follow-up visit.
Caring for a space maintainer
- Brush carefully around it and clean the teeth beside it.
- Avoid sticky or hard foods such as taffy and hard candy.
- Keep regular check-ups so the dentist can see if the adult tooth is coming in.
- Do not push or pull it with fingers or the tongue.
Call the clinic if it comes loose, breaks, rubs the gum or causes pain.
What happens if one is needed and skipped?
Without a space maintainer, nearby teeth may drift, which can cause crowding or crooked adult teeth, and may mean orthodontic treatment later. Your dentist can explain what is likely in your child's case.
Frequently asked questions
- What is a space maintainer?
- A small appliance that holds the space left by a baby tooth so the adult tooth can come in properly.
- Does it hurt?
- It should not hurt. Some children feel pressure or notice it for a few days.
- How long is it worn?
- Until the adult tooth is ready to come in. The dentist will monitor it.
- What if it comes loose?
- Call the clinic. Do not try to fix it at home.
- What happens if we skip it?
- Nearby teeth may drift into the gap, which can affect how the adult tooth comes in.
Next step
If your child has lost a baby tooth early, read about the clinic's space maintainer service or book a visit. Wetaskiwin Smiles is at 3600 56 St Unit 101, Wetaskiwin, AB T9A 3T5. Call (780) 396-4040 or request an appointment online.