One of the many functions of baby teeth is to hold space for the adult teeth that will eventually push them through. When baby teeth are lost prematurely, the permanent teeth that are coming in on either side can actually drift into the space that was reserved for another tooth. This can cause teeth to become crowded, crooked, or blocked from coming in properly.

Space maintainers hold open the empty space left by a lost tooth. They steady the remaining teeth, preventing movement until the permanent tooth takes its natural position in the jaw.

Types of Space Maintainers

• Fixed: Cemented to the teeth on either side of the space
• Removable: Similar to a retainer, can be taken out for cleaning

Space maintainers are custom-made for each child and are typically used until the permanent tooth erupts.