When a child loses a baby tooth early, a space maintainer holds the gap open so permanent teeth can erupt into the correct position. Yi-Tsu Cheng, D.D.S. & Associates provides space maintainers in Chamblee, GA.
Baby teeth serve as natural placeholders for permanent teeth. When a baby tooth is lost prematurely due to decay, injury, or extraction, neighboring teeth can drift into the empty space, blocking the permanent tooth from coming in properly. This can lead to crowding, misalignment, and the need for more extensive orthodontic treatment later.
A space maintainer is a small appliance, either fixed or removable, that holds the space open until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt. The device is custom-made for your child and is comfortable to wear.
Our team monitors your child’s developing teeth at regular checkups and will let you know when the space maintainer can be removed. This simple preventive step can save time, discomfort, and cost compared to correcting alignment problems after the fact.
Why space maintainers matter
- Preserves space for the permanent tooth to erupt correctly
- Prevents neighboring teeth from shifting into the gap
- Reduces the likelihood of crowding and misalignment
- Can reduce the need for more complex orthodontic treatment
- Custom-fitted for comfort
What to expect
- An evaluation of your child’s dental development and the gap left by the missing tooth
- An impression or scan to create a custom space maintainer
- Placement of the appliance, with instructions for your child on care
- Regular monitoring at checkup visits until the permanent tooth erupts
Who is a good candidate?
Children who lose a baby tooth before the permanent tooth is ready to come in are candidates for a space maintainer. Your dentist will evaluate whether a spacer is needed based on your child’s dental development and the location of the missing tooth.
Frequently asked questions
Space maintainer costs depend on the type (fixed or removable) and the complexity of the case. Many dental insurance plans cover space maintainers for children. We provide a clear estimate and help you understand your benefits.
Space maintainers are most commonly placed for children between ages 3 and 12 who have lost a baby tooth early. The ideal timing depends on your child’s dental development and when the permanent tooth is expected to erupt.
A space maintainer is a custom dental appliance that holds open the gap left by a baby tooth that was lost too early. It prevents neighboring teeth from drifting and keeps the space available for the permanent tooth.
Removing a space maintainer is quick and painless. Once the permanent tooth begins to erupt, the appliance is gently removed at a routine visit. No anesthesia is needed.
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Our multilingual team is here to answer your questions and help you feel confident about your care. New patients are always welcome.