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 erupt out of position or to be blocked entirely, and it may result in crowded or crooked teeth.

There are both fixed and removable space maintainers. A fixed space maintainer is cemented onto the adjacent teeth, and saves room for teeth that haven’t grown in yet.

There are four types of fixed space maintainers:

  • Crown and Loop: A stainless steel loop is attached to an existing crown, pressing against the tooth on the other side of the gap to ensure that the space will stay open for the incoming tooth.
  • Unilateral: A unilateral device uses a wire that is wrapped around the teeth and connected to a metal loop to maintain a space between two teeth.
  • Distal Shoe: A distal shoe is used for molars, and is placed directly into the gum line. It guides the incoming tooth as it grows in. These maintainers might require more maintenance and check-ups to make sure it is working properly.
  • Lingual: Lingual maintainers are typically used when a child is missing multiple teeth due, and are cemented to molars. Wires are connected to crowns to make space across several gaps. It’s also commonly used in congenital defects, like in cases where the adult teeth never develop. The space maintainer is then used to make room for a future bridge or dental implant.

Removable maintainers are used when the tooth is growing in or almost ready to grow in. They are sometimes made to look like an artificial tooth, and are placed between teeth to save room.

Both permanent and removable space maintainers are custom-made to fit into your child’s mouth. Space maintainers are worn until X-rays reveal that the tooth underneath is ready to erupt naturally. It is very important that anyone wearing a space maintainer keep up good oral hygiene at home and have regular professional dental cleanings.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE

You Might Also Like

Ultrasonic cleaning, also known as ultrasonic scaling, is an alternative to traditional manual methods of removing plaque from your teeth....

Metal Braces Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces, as they correct a variety of orthodontic conditions...

Elastics Elastics are small rubber bands that help move teeth into proper alignment. Typically, one side is connected to the...

Check Your Dental Implant Eligibility Today

Discover if you qualify for life-changing Dental Implants. Our eligibility assessment ensures personalized solutions for your unique needs. Take the first step towards renewed confidence and a grin that truly reflects your vibrant self. Assess your eligibility now – your dream smile awaits!

In 60 Seconds, Determine Your Dental 
Implant Eligibility.

What our customers say

Our patients speak from the heart. Explore genuine stories of transformed smiles and renewed confidence.

These are dentists who CARE about their patients. I have been going to TCFD for 30 years and will not ever change! The doctors and staff treat you like family and they have a high standard for running their practice, constantly working to keep up to date on dental technology. Moreover, Drs Al and Lauren are the ultimate professionals and are highly SKILLED dentists with excellent “chair-side” manner. They make dental visits relaxed and “un-intimidating”.

Tina Lop

1 month ago
Sydney did a fantastic job addressing all of my concerns and made my cleaning a breeze! Minimal discomfort and maximum results! My teeth were squeaky clean and I could literally feel the difference immediately. Front desk girls are angels and scheduling is such a breeze! The doctors are phenomenal and incredibly informative!

Derena Colbasiuc

1 month ago
As always Towne Centre dental is #1 in my books! I’ve been going to Jamie and Dr. Lauren for over 20yrs And I would never go anywhere else!

Laurette Miller

2 months ago
Be prepared for a completely unexpected experience if you have the pleasure to visit this establishment. Everything says professional. Everything says modern. Everything says welcome.

Jerry Bove

3 months ago
Doctor Jaime, Chris, and the entire staff were extremely kind and walked me through each step of the process. This has been the most pleasant dental experience I have ever had! 10/10 recommend!

Sahil Parkash

3 months ago
Dr. Lauren and her assistant, Lucy, were amazing. They are so helpful and so skilled and so friendly and make it all seem effortless.

Carole Moore

4 months ago
Awesome experience. Everyone was great, especially Dr. Lauren and her assistant Lucy. Highly recommended.

Z G

4 months ago
Nobody likes to go to the dentist, but since one must, this is the place to go ! I have always had a good experience at TCFD. The personnel and the facility are top notch !

J Jeffrey Molesko

4 months ago
Great staff all around. Have been a patient for almost 35 years. All my kids and grandkids go here too!! I have since retired and moved 50 miles away and still make the drive to continue with the best dental care!

Susan Stickle

4 months ago
I am very pleased with Town Center Family Dental in Hillsborough NJ. I have been a patient of the practice for over four years. The dental treatment and services are state of the art and performed with the utmost professionalism and efficiency. I have had some interim dental issues between my six-month scheduled cleanings. These issues have been addressed immediately. I have never had to wait to get an appointment or the matter not taken care of in a timely manner. The insurance/billing office is equally efficient looking into out-of-pocket cost and communicating that to the patient. Staff here are very professional, knowledgeable, and efficient. They are a comprehensive dental practice.

Gloria Marconi

5 months ago

Can Dental Implants Work for You?

Take this 60-seconds quiz to see if dental implants are right for you!

Download our Free Dental Implant Pricing & Information Guide!

The Guide Will Show You

Fill Out The Form Below And We Will Email/text You The Guide Along With A
$350 Savings Offer!

Discover the Best Option to Get a Beautiful White Smile

Fill Out This Short Assessment To Discover The Best Option To Get A Beautiful White Smile Along With A Free Consultation!

Discover your orthodontic options to see which is the best for you

Fill out this short Smile Assessment to discover which teeth straightening option is best for you and get a custom consultation!

Request an Appointment

Our dedicated team is here to provide you with personalized attention and exceptional care, tailored to meet your unique dental needs.