Space Maintainers

Succasunna, NJ

Losing a baby tooth too early can lead to shifting teeth and future alignment issues. At Roxbury Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry in Succasunna, NJ, we offer space maintainers to help protect your child’s developing smile. These small, custom-made appliances hold the space open until a permanent tooth is ready to erupt, preventing bite problems and reducing the need for future orthodontic treatment.

If your child has lost a tooth prematurely, schedule a consultation today to learn how space maintainers can help.

What Are Space Maintainers?

Space maintainers are dental devices designed to prevent neighboring teeth from shifting into the space left by a lost baby tooth. Without them, teeth may move out of alignment, making it difficult for permanent teeth to erupt correctly. These appliances are simple, comfortable, and customized for each child’s needs.

Prevents shifting: Holds space for the permanent tooth to come in properly.
Guides tooth eruption: Helps new teeth grow into the correct position.
Reduces orthodontic treatment: Lowers the chances of needing extensive braces later.
Comfortable and durable: Designed for easy wear and long-term function.

Why Some Kids Need Space Maintainers

Not every child requires a space maintainer, but in certain cases, they are necessary to ensure proper dental alignment. When a baby tooth is lost too soon, the surrounding teeth may drift, causing long-term issues that could require more extensive treatment later.

Early tooth loss: Needed if a baby tooth is lost due to decay, injury, or early extraction.
Prevents crowding: Stops nearby teeth from shifting into the open space.
Supports proper spacing: Ensures the permanent tooth has room to grow.
Reduces future complications: Lowers the need for extensive orthodontic work.

Different Types Of Space Maintainers

There are different types of space maintainers, each designed for specific situations. Some are removable, while others are fixed to the teeth until they are no longer needed. Your child’s dentist will recommend the best option based on their age, tooth development, and specific dental needs.

Removable space maintainers: Function similarly to retainers and can be taken out for cleaning.
Fixed space maintainers: Cemented in place and stay until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt.
Band and loop: Commonly used when a single tooth is missing.
Lingual arch: Helps maintain alignment when multiple teeth are missing in the lower jaw.
Distal shoe: Guides unerupted molars into the correct position.

Caring For Space Maintainers

Proper care is essential to ensure the space maintainer remains effective and comfortable. Children should be mindful of their appliances and take simple steps to maintain their oral health.

Maintain oral hygiene: Brush and floss carefully around the space maintainer.
Avoid sticky and hard foods: Gum, caramel, and hard candies can damage the appliance.
Attend regular check-ups: Allows the dentist to monitor the fit and effectiveness.
Report any issues: Contact the dentist if the space maintainer becomes loose or uncomfortable.

What Happens After The Space Maintainer Is Removed?

Once the permanent tooth is ready to erupt, the space maintainer is removed to allow it to grow naturally. This step ensures that the new tooth comes in properly aligned and that no additional space is needed. In some cases, a follow-up evaluation may be required to check alignment and determine if further orthodontic care is necessary.

Proper eruption: The space maintainer is removed when the new tooth is ready to emerge.
Alignment check: Ensures the tooth grows into the correct position.
Follow-up care: Additional visits may be needed to monitor spacing and alignment.
Long-term benefits: Helps maintain a straight, healthy smile.

Helping Smiles Grow The Right Way, One Tooth At A Time

Space maintainers play a crucial role in keeping your child’s smile on track. With expert care and personalized treatment, your child can avoid unnecessary orthodontic complications in the future. At Roxbury Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry in Succasunna, NJ, we are committed to helping children achieve healthy, properly aligned smiles. Schedule an appointment today to find out if a space maintainer is the right solution!