Space Maintainers
Space maintainers keep the correct space open for a permanent tooth when a baby tooth is lost too early. By holding the space, they support healthy tooth development and maintain proper bite alignment.
Space Maintainers on the North Shore, MA
Space maintainers are small dental devices used to keep the proper space open for a permanent tooth when a baby tooth is lost earlier than expected. Without this support, nearby teeth can drift into the empty space, making it harder for the adult tooth to come in correctly. By holding the space in place, these appliances help prevent crowding, misalignment, and other issues that can develop as your child’s smile grows.
At Broad Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we provide custom-made space maintainers designed for comfort, durability, and healthy dental development. Our team carefully monitors your child’s growth to ensure their permanent teeth erupt in the correct position. If your child has lost a baby tooth prematurely, we’re here to guide you through the next steps and protect their long-term oral health.
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How long do space maintainers last?
Space maintainers typically stay in place until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt, which can range from a few months to a couple of years depending on your child’s development. They are designed to be durable and remain effective as long as needed, but regular dental checkups are important to ensure proper fit and monitor growth. Once the adult tooth begins to emerge, the dentist will remove the space maintainer to allow natural eruption.
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Are space maintainers painful?
Space maintainers are not usually painful. Your child may feel a little pressure or mild discomfort for a day or two as they get used to the appliance, but this typically goes away quickly. Space maintainers are designed to fit comfortably and should not cause ongoing irritation. Regular checkups help ensure everything stays in place and your child remains comfortable throughout treatment.
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Do space maintainers need to be removed?
Yes, space maintainers need to be removed once the permanent tooth is ready to erupt. Your dentist will monitor your child’s growth during regular checkups and decide when it’s time to take the appliance out. Removing it at the right moment ensures the adult tooth can come in naturally and correctly. If the maintainer becomes loose or damaged before then, it may need earlier adjustment or replacement.
A Kid-Friendly Dental Experience
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