What are space maintainers?

There are a few different types of dental spacers or space maintainers. The band and loop space maintainer is perhaps the most commonly used for pediatric dentistry. A metal band wraps around a nearby intact tooth, preferably a larger tooth like a molar. This band supports a loop of metal wire that runs to the next closest tooth and presses against it. This design works well because it's open enough for easy brushing and won't interfere with chewing or speech. However, it works only for single tooth gaps. For larger gaps where multiple teeth are missing, designs with crowns rather than bands are often recommended for holding better pressure without risking damage to the underlying tooth. Other options include sub-lingual bilateral designs where a wire that runs under the tongue maintains spaces on both sides of the upper or lower sets of teeth.

Potential Benefits of Choosing Space Maintainers

Maintaining proper spacing of the teeth takes more care than you might think. As your child's teeth are lost between the ages of 6 and 12, they'll face unknown periods of time when they're waiting for the replacements to grow in. Teeth can shift a surprising amount when there's a gap between them, even in a period as short as six months. Keeping teeth in place and maintaining an open gap ensures that the adult teeth grow into the natural placement without issue. The prompt use of space maintainers during the right parts of childhood can result in a straighter, more even adult smile without the need for braces. Even if braces are needed as your child gets older, using space maintainers can reduce the length of time they'll need to wear them by reducing the total alignment change they'll need. Most children find space maintainers far more comfortable to use than braces, so explaining the benefits to your children may help them accept the idea of getting these devices put in.

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