Space Maintainers in Lehi, UT
When a child loses a baby tooth too early, a space maintainer holds the gap open so permanent teeth can come in properly. At Alpine Kids Dentistry, these custom appliances are small, comfortable, and an affordable way to prevent future alignment problems.
Space maintainers are made of metal or plastic and custom fit to your child’s mouth. They are small and unobtrusive, and most children adjust to them within just a few days at our Lehi, UT office.
Why Do Children Lose Baby Teeth Early?
A baby tooth normally stays in place until the permanent tooth beneath it pushes it out. Unfortunately, some children lose a baby tooth too soon, whether from an accident or because of dental disease. When this happens, our pediatric dentist may recommend a space maintainer to prevent future space loss.
Why Spacing Matters
Baby teeth are important for your child’s present and future dental health. They guide permanent teeth into position and hold space in the jaw. If a baby tooth is lost too early, neighboring teeth can tilt or drift into the empty space, and teeth in the opposite jaw may shift as well. This crowding can force permanent teeth to come in crooked, sometimes requiring extensive orthodontic treatment later. Remember that some baby teeth aren’t replaced until age 12 to 14.
How Space Maintainers Help
Space maintainers hold open the gap left by a missing tooth, steadying the surrounding teeth until the permanent tooth erupts naturally. Keeping teeth in their proper position with a maintainer is more affordable and easier on your child than moving them back with orthodontic treatment later. There are several types, including band and loop, distal shoe, lower lingual holding arch, and Nance appliances.
Caring for a Space Maintainer
Help your child avoid sticky sweets and chewing gum, discourage pushing or tugging on the appliance with fingers or tongue, keep it clean with good brushing and flossing, and continue regular dental visits. If a maintainer becomes loose, contact us promptly. Request an appointment or call 801-377-5437.
Space Maintainers FAQs
What is a space maintainer?
A space maintainer is a small custom appliance made of metal or plastic that holds open the gap left by an early-lost baby tooth so the permanent tooth can erupt properly.
Why does my child need a space maintainer if baby teeth fall out anyway?
Baby teeth hold space for permanent teeth. When one is lost early, neighboring teeth can shift into the gap, causing crowding and crooked permanent teeth that may need orthodontics.
Will my child be uncomfortable with a space maintainer?
Space maintainers are small and unobtrusive. Most children adjust within a few days, and any initial soreness can be eased with over-the-counter pain relief if needed.
How does my child care for a space maintainer?
Avoid sticky sweets and gum, don’t push or pull on the appliance, keep it clean with good brushing and flossing, and continue regular dental checkups.
What types of space maintainers are there?
Common types include band and loop, distal shoe, lower lingual holding arch, and Nance appliances. Our dentist selects the best option for your child’s individual needs.
How long does my child wear a space maintainer?
A space maintainer stays in place until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt. We monitor its fit and your child’s development at regular visits.
What should I do if the space maintainer comes loose?
Contact our office promptly so we can recement it. A loose or dislodged maintainer should be addressed quickly to keep the space open as intended.