Space maintainers are an essential tool in pediatric dentistry used to protect your child’s developing smile. When a baby tooth is lost too early — due to injury, decay or extraction — it can lead to significant dental issues. Baby teeth serve as placeholders for permanent teeth, guiding them into the correct positions. Without a space maintainer, neighboring teeth may shift into the empty space, causing crowding or alignment problems. A space maintainer in Bluffdale, Utah, preserves the gap, ensuring that the permanent tooth has enough room to emerge properly.

Types of Space Maintainers

There are two main categories of space maintainers: fixed and removable.

  • Fixed space maintainers are attached to adjacent teeth with dental cement and stay in place until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt. They are typically made of stainless steel or acrylic and are custom-made to fit your child’s mouth.
  • Removable space maintainers resemble orthodontic retainers and can be taken out for cleaning. These are usually recommended for older children who are responsible enough to care for them properly.

What to Expect During Treatment

The process of getting a space maintainer is simple and comfortable. During the first visit, our pediatric dentists and team will take an impression of your child’s teeth to create a custom appliance. Once the space maintainer is ready, it is placed and secured during a follow-up appointment. Your child will need regular dental checkups to ensure the device remains effective and that the surrounding teeth and gums stay healthy.

Caring for a Space Maintainer

Proper care is important to keep the space maintainer functioning well. Encourage your child to brush and floss carefully around the appliance. Avoid giving them sticky candies or hard snacks that could loosen or damage the device. If the space maintainer ever feels loose or causes discomfort, contact The Point Pediatric Dentistry so we can make the necessary adjustments.

Schedule an Appointment Today

If your child has lost a baby tooth prematurely, a space maintainer in Bluffdale, Utah, may be the key to preventing future dental complications. Our team is here to provide personalized, gentle care to support your child’s oral development. Call us at 801-890-1161 today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Emily Austin or Dr. Michael Tew and learn more about how we can help your child maintain a healthy, confident smile.