Space Maintainer

Early loss of baby teeth can lead to dental misalignment and crowding, affecting your child’s future smile. To prevent these issues, space maintainers play a crucial role in guiding the proper eruption of permanent teeth. At Fitchburg Dental Associates, we specialize in space maintenance to help keep your child’s oral health on track.

Why Does Your Child Need a Space Maintainer?

Baby teeth act as natural placeholders for permanent teeth. When lost too soon due to decay, trauma, or genetic factors, the surrounding teeth may shift into an empty space. This can cause:

• Crowding and Misalignment – Neighboring teeth move into the gap, making it difficult for permanent teeth to erupt properly.

• Impacted Teeth – Permanent teeth may become trapped under the gums, leading to potential oral health complications.

• Orthodontic Issues – Lack of proper spacing can result in bite problems, requiring future orthodontic treatment.

Types of Space Maintainers

At Fitchburg Dental Associates, we offer custom-fitted space maintainers tailored to your child’s needs.

Fixed Space Maintainers (Cemented in Place)

• Band-and-Loop – A small stainless steel band is placed around a nearby tooth, and a loop holds the space for a missing tooth, usually a back molar. This is the most common fixed appliance for one missing tooth.

• Crown-and-Loop – Works like the band-and-loop, but a crown is used on a weak or restored tooth. The loop keeps the space open and adds extra support.

• Lingual Arch / Nance Appliance – A wire connects teeth across the upper or lower jaw to keep space open when several teeth are missing.

Removable Space Maintainers (Can Be Taken Out for Cleaning)

These are best for children who can remember to wear them and take care of them. Usually recommended for school-aged kids, removable appliances keep spaces open and can be removed for easy cleaning.

Benefits of Space Maintainers

• Prevents Crowding and Misalignment – Ensures teeth remain in their correct positions.

• Guides Proper Eruption – Helps permanent teeth grow into their natural places.

• Reduces Future Orthodontic Needs – Early intervention can lower treatment costs and duration.

• Improves Oral Function – Supports proper chewing, speech, and long-term dental health.

Caring for a Space Maintainer

• Brush and Floss Daily – Maintain proper oral hygiene to prevent plaque buildup.

• Avoid Sticky and Hard Foods – Chewing gum, caramel, or ice can damage the appliance.

• Regular Dental Checkups – Visit Fitchburg Dental Associates for routine monitoring and adjustments.

• Use a Mouthguard – If your child plays sports, protect their teeth and appliances with a custom mouthguard.

Protect Your Child’s Future Smile with Fitchburg Dental Associates

Early intervention is key to preventing dental complications. If your child has lost a baby tooth prematurely, consult our experts at Fitchburg Dental Associates for a custom space maintainer solution.

Call us today to schedule a consultation.