When a child loses a baby tooth earlier than expected, parents often assume there is no harm done since the permanent tooth will eventually appear. However, early tooth loss can cause nearby teeth to shift, leading to misalignment and bite issues. This is where space maintainers come in. They are special dental devices designed to keep the empty space open until the permanent tooth grows in properly. Understanding how space maintainers work and the different types available can help parents make the best decisions for their child’s oral health.
If you are looking for expert guidance and care, our pediatric dentist in Des Plaines, IL, can recommend the right space maintainer based on your child’s needs.
Baby teeth, also known as primary teeth, play an essential role in guiding the growth of permanent teeth. When a tooth is lost too early due to decay, injury, or extraction, the neighboring teeth may drift into the space left by the missing tooth. This can block the path of the permanent tooth, leading to crowding, crooked teeth, or bite problems.
A space maintainer prevents these complications by holding the gap open until the new tooth emerges naturally. It helps ensure your child’s smile develops correctly, reducing the need for orthodontic treatment later.
Space maintainers come in various forms depending on the child’s dental condition and whether the missing tooth is in the upper or lower jaw. They are broadly divided into fixed and removable types.
Fixed space maintainers are cemented to a tooth and stay in the mouth until the dentist decides they can be safely removed. These are the most common types used in pediatric dentistry because they are durable, effective, and require minimal cooperation from young children.
This is one of the most commonly used types. It involves placing a metal band around one of the adjacent teeth, with a wire loop extending into the space left by the missing tooth. It helps maintain the correct distance and prevents neighboring teeth from moving.
Best for: Single missing baby molars.
Similar to the band and loop design, this type uses a stainless steel crown instead of a band on the adjacent tooth. It is typically used when the supporting tooth is decayed or damaged and needs additional protection.
Best for: When the adjacent tooth also needs a crown or restoration.
This appliance is commonly used when multiple teeth are missing on the lower jaw. It includes two bands on the molars connected by a wire that rests along the inside of the lower front teeth. It helps keep the molars in place and maintains arch integrity.
Best for: Bilateral tooth loss in the lower jaw.
The Nance appliance is used on the upper jaw and consists of two molar bands connected by a wire with an acrylic pad that rests on the roof of the mouth. This design prevents the upper molars from drifting forward.
Best for: Bilateral space maintenance in the upper jaw.
This is a specialized type used when the baby molar is lost before the first permanent molar has erupted. It includes a metal extension that guides the growth of the incoming molar into its correct position. Because it extends below the gum line, this appliance requires careful monitoring.
Best for: Premature loss of second baby molars before the eruption of the first permanent molar.
Removable space maintainers function similarly to orthodontic retainers. They are made of acrylic and may include wires or artificial teeth to fill the space. While they can be taken out for cleaning, they rely on the child’s ability to wear them consistently.
This type includes a plastic base and artificial teeth that maintain the space and restore appearance. It’s often used when several teeth are missing, providing both functional and cosmetic benefits.
Best for: Older children who can handle removable appliances responsibly.
In some cases, dentists recommend a removable appliance that not only holds space but also supports other oral functions, such as chewing and speaking. This type is custom-made for the child’s mouth.
Best for: Children who need both space maintenance and functional improvement.
The duration depends on how long it takes for the permanent tooth to erupt. Some children may need the appliance for several months, while others might wear it for a year or more. Regular checkups with our pediatric Dentist in Des Plaines, IL, are essential to monitor the appliance, ensure it stays clean, and determine when it should be removed.
Proper care helps extend the life of the space maintainer and keeps your child’s mouth healthy. Here are some simple tips:
Without a space maintainer, the neighboring teeth can drift into the empty area, causing alignment issues that may require braces later on. The eruption of permanent teeth may also be delayed or occur in the wrong position, leading to crowding or bite problems. Investing in a space maintainer early can save both time and money on future orthodontic treatments.
If your child has lost a baby tooth too soon, early action can make a big difference. At Kind Kids Pediatric Dentistry, your trusted Pediatric Dentist in Des Plaines, IL, we specialize in gentle, customized dental care for children. Our experienced team can evaluate your child’s smile and recommend the most effective type of space maintainer to keep their teeth aligned and healthy.
Schedule an appointment today and let us help your child grow up with a confident, well-aligned smile.
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