Why Kids Might Need a Space Maintainer
TLDR / Key Takeaway
If your child loses a baby tooth too early, a space maintainer helps keep the gap open until the permanent tooth comes in. This simple appliance prevents crowding and misalignment later on. At Kids Dental Pals & Orthodontics in Simi Valley, we make sure it fits comfortably and works effectively.
What Is a Space Maintainer?
A space maintainer is a small dental device used to hold space where a baby tooth was lost prematurely. Baby teeth play an important role in guiding permanent teeth into the correct position. When they come out too soon, neighboring teeth can shift into the open space, causing alignment issues.
Space maintainers are custom-made for your child and can be:
- Fixed (cemented in place) or
- Removable (similar to a retainer)
The type your child needs depends on their age, which tooth was lost, and how cooperative they are with wearing it.
When Does a Child Need One?
Not every lost baby tooth requires a space maintainer, but one may be recommended if:
- The tooth was lost well before the adult tooth is ready to erupt
- There’s a risk of teeth shifting into the empty space
- Your child is undergoing orthodontic treatment
These devices are especially important for molars, which help guide jaw growth and future bite alignment.
How the Process Works
Getting a space maintainer is easy and involves just a couple of visits:
- First Visit: We take impressions and assess your child’s bite
- Second Visit: We fit and place the custom-made space maintainer
The procedure is quick and painless. Once it’s in place, we’ll show you how to keep it clean and monitor it during regular checkups.
Caring for a Space Maintainer
To keep the appliance working properly, your child should:
- Avoid sticky or chewy foods
- Brush and floss carefully around the device
- Attend follow-up appointments to check for any needed adjustments
Most kids adapt to the space maintainer quickly. It becomes a normal part of their mouth in no time!
Why This Matters for Long-Term Oral Health
Skipping a space maintainer can lead to:
- Crowded or crooked permanent teeth
- Longer or more complex orthodontic treatment later
- Problems with jaw alignment
By preserving the space left by a lost tooth, you’re setting your child up for a healthier, more functional smile.
Trust Kids Dental Pals in Simi Valley
Our pediatric dental team has experience fitting comfortable, effective space maintainers for children of all ages. We:
- Make the process easy and stress-free
- Customize each appliance for a perfect fit
- Provide clear guidance for parents and kids alike
From start to finish, we ensure your child’s oral development stays on track.
Schedule a Visit Today For Space Maintainers
If your child has lost a tooth early, don’t wait for crowding to start.
Schedule a consultation at Kids Dental Pals & Orthodontics in Simi Valley to see if a space maintainer is right for your child.
