A space maintainer is a small dental device that holds open the gap left by a baby tooth that falls out too early. It keeps neighboring teeth from shifting and ensures there’s enough space for the adult tooth to come in properly.
When a baby tooth is lost too soon due to decay, injury, or extraction, nearby teeth can begin to move into the empty space. This can lead to:
Crooked or crowded adult teeth
Misaligned bites
The need for more complex orthodontic treatment later
Space maintainers help avoid these issues and guide healthy dental development.
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Depending on your child’s age and dental needs, we may recommend:
Fixed space maintainers (cemented in place)
Removable space maintainers (similar to a retainer)
We’ll explain each option clearly and choose the one that works best for your child.
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Placing a space maintainer is a simple, painless process. At Harrison Pediatric Dentistry, our team ensures your child is comfortable every step of the way and follows up at regular visits to check its fit and function.
We’re honored to serve the next generation of healthy, confident smiles. Whether it’s your child’s first appointment or their next routine checkup, we’re here to help.