What Is a Space Maintainer?

When a baby tooth is lost earlier than it should be, whether from decay, injury, or extraction, the surrounding teeth can start to drift into the empty space. A space maintainer is a small fixed or removable appliance that holds that space open until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt.

Common Types

• Band-and-loop: a small band on the neighboring tooth connected to a loop that holds the space, used when one tooth is missing.
• Distal shoe: used when a permanent molar hasn't erupted yet, it guides the tooth into the correct position.
• Lingual holding arch: spans the back of the lower arch to hold multiple spaces at once.

Why It's Worth It

Without a space maintainer, shifting teeth can crowd out the permanent tooth and lead to more complex orthodontic treatment later. A simple appliance now can prevent a lot of trouble down the road.