Are Pediatric Space Maintainers Really Necessary?

When Are Space Maintainers Recommended?

Space maintainers are typically recommended in the following situations:

• When a child loses a baby tooth due to decay or injury before the permanent tooth is ready to emerge
• If a child is born without certain teeth
• When baby teeth are removed due to severe decay or other dental issues
• In cases where several baby teeth are missing

Our pediatric dentists at Saginaw Kids Dentistry will assess your child's individual needs and recommend space maintainers if they believe it's necessary for your child's long-term dental health.

The Consequences of Not Using Space Maintainers

While space maintainers may seem like an optional treatment, neglecting to use them when necessary can lead to several dental issues:

• Misaligned permanent teeth
• Overcrowding in the mouth
• Impacted teeth that fail to emerge properly
• Bite problems that may require extensive orthodontic treatment later

By using space maintainers when recommended, you can potentially save your child from more complicated and expensive dental procedures in the future.

How Long Will My Child Need to Wear a Space Maintainer?

The duration for wearing a space maintainer varies depending on each child's individual situation. Factors that influence this include:

• The type of tooth lost
• The child's age when the tooth was lost
• The development of the permanent tooth

Generally, a child will wear a space maintainer until the permanent tooth begins to erupt. This could be anywhere from a few months to several years. Regular check-ups at Saginaw Kids Dentistry will allow us to monitor your child's progress and determine when the space maintainer is no longer needed.

Types of Space Maintainers

There are different types of space maintainers, and the choice depends on the location and number of lost teeth. 

• Removable space maintainers: These are similar to orthodontic appliances and can be removed for cleaning or eating.
• Fixed space maintainers: These are cemented into place and can only be removed by a dentist.

Caring for Space Maintainers

Proper care and maintenance of space maintainers are crucial to their effectiveness and your child's oral health. 

• Regular cleaning: Like natural teeth, space maintainers should be brushed and flossed daily.
• Regular dental check-ups: Regular visits to the dentist will ensure the space maintainer is working correctly and not causing any discomfort.

We’re Your Trusted Pediatric Dental Home in Saginaw

If you're concerned about your child's dental health or think they might need a space maintainer, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Saginaw Kids Dentistry. Our experienced pediatric dentists, Dr. Elias Chahine and Dr. Christina Huynh, are here to guide you and provide the best dental care for your child. Call us today at (682) 285-1900 to schedule an appointment.