Space Maintainers are removable or fixed orthodontic appliances used to hold the space of a missing tooth. If the deciduous teeth have been lost prematurely, these space maintainers help to prevent the surrounding teeth from shifting and moving into this space. Deciduous teeth naturally perform the function of space maintainers so that the permanent teeth know where to erupt. When they are lost too early, this can affect the permanent tooth’s ability to come in properly. The orthodontic appliance is a band and loop device that connects the abutment teeth on either side of the gaps and holds them into place. When the permanent tooth is due to erupt, the space maintainer will be removed.
What types of Space Maintainers are available?
Space Maintainers are of two types; fixed or removable, but in most cases fixed space maintainers are preferable. They are also available as unilateral or bilateral maintainers, meaning they maintain the space on one or both sides of the mouth.
