What are Space Maintainers? Space maintainers are custom-fit appliances made of metal or plastic that help hold the space left by prematurely lost primary teeth. These devices prevent surrounding teeth from tilting toward the empty space, ensuring proper alignment for permanent teeth.

Why are Space Maintainers Important? Primary teeth stay in place until permanent teeth push them out. However, accidents or dental disease can cause children to lose primary teeth too early. Space maintainers can help prevent future dental issues by maintaining space for permanent teeth, which may not erupt until a child is 12 to 14 years old.

How Do Space Maintainers Work? Most children quickly adjust to space maintainers. These devices keep the surrounding teeth steady, preventing them from shifting into the empty space. Without a maintainer, misalignment may occur, leading to the need for orthodontic treatment later on. It is more cost-effective to use a space maintainer than to correct misaligned teeth with braces.

Schedule Your Child's Preventive Consultation Call Children's Dental Land today to schedule your child’s preventive consultation and ensure their smile stays healthy and properly aligned.