Space Maintainers Howell, NJ

What Is a Space Maintainer?

A space maintainer is an oral appliance that, as the name suggests, keeps teeth in their proper position. We usually recommend a space maintainer after your child loses a primary tooth prematurely. This appliance will prevent the remaining teeth from invading the open space. Not every child who loses a primary tooth early needs a space maintainer. During an initial consultation, Dr. Karan Estwick will perform a thorough exam to determine if an appliance is necessary to the development of your child’s oral health. Without a space maintainer, the remaining teeth may cause eruption issues that result in impacted or misaligned permanent teeth.

Types of Space Maintainers

There are two types of space maintainers for primary teeth. The type of appliance we suggest depends on your preferences and your child’s individual needs. A fixed maintainer is by far the most common option. Fixed space maintainers include:

• The Band-and-Loop Appliance: Stainless steel orthodontic bands that wrap around the two surrounding teeth, usually molars. This allows the permanent tooth to erupt while keeping the space open.
• Lingual Holding Arch: Utilized for lower posterior teeth on both sides of the jaw.
• Transpalatal Arch: Similar to a lingual arch, but designed for the upper teeth.
• Distal Shoe Appliance: Fits over the first baby molar and maintains the space after the tooth is lost.

The other type of space maintainer is removable and less common. Most of these maintainers are made from acrylic and are similar to an orthodontic retainer. In some cases, the retainer-like appliance attaches to an artificial tooth. This may be ideal for a tooth lost in the visible smile line, especially if cosmetics are a concern. We usually recommend fixed maintainers for our younger patients because they require less responsibility. A removable appliance is easier to damage or lose. Talk with Dr. Karan Estwick to learn more about your child’s options during their appointment.

Caring for a Space Maintainer

It may take some time for your child to adjust to their new space maintainer. Some minor irritation or changes in eating and speaking are normal at first and should improve quickly. Both fixed and removable appliances require special care. If your child has a fixed maintainer, avoid sticky or hard foods that could damage it. Removable maintainers should be taken out before eating, drinking anything besides water, and before brushing and flossing. Encourage your child to clean carefully around the appliance to prevent tooth decay or gum irritation. We may also schedule periodic checkups to monitor their progress. If the appliance becomes loose or damaged, please contact our office as soon as possible.

Schedule an Appointment

If your child has prematurely lost a primary tooth, they may need a space maintainer. Call (848) 329-5467 to schedule an appointment now.