SPACE MAINTAINERS
In Bell Gardens

Space Maintainers
WHAT ARE THEY?

Space maintainers are dental appliances that are used to hold and maintain space for permanent teeth that are yet to emerge or have been extracted.

They are typically recommended for children, as their primary teeth play a crucial role in guiding the permanent teeth into their correct positions.
space maintainers in Bell gardens
space maintainers

How do space maintainers
Work?

When a child’s baby tooth (primary tooth) is lost before the permanent tooth is ready to emerge, the surrounding teeth can shift and fill in the gap. This can lead to crowding, misalignment, and other dental problems.

A space maintainer helps prevent this from happening by keeping the space open until the permanent tooth is ready to emerge. This ensures proper tooth alignment and prevents the need for more extensive orthodontic treatment in the future.

Types of
sPACE MAINTAINERS

Removable Space Maintainers

These are the most common type of space maintainers and are usually made of acrylic. They can be easily removed for cleaning and are often recommended for children who are not yet able to properly clean their teeth.

Fixed Space Maintainers

Fixed space maintainers are attached to the teeth using dental cement and are not removable. They are typically made of stainless steel and are more durable than removable space maintainers.

Implant-Supported Space Maintainers

These are used when the space between the teeth is too wide for a traditional space maintainer. They are anchored to the jawbone using dental implants and are a more permanent solution.

Getting a Space Maintainer:
What to expect

STEP 1 EXAMINATION

Once the space maintainer has been created, it will be fitted onto the prepared teeth. The dentist will ensure that it fits properly and make any necessary adjustments.

STEP 2 PREPARING THE TEETH

Once the type of space maintainer has been determined, your Bell gardens children's dentist will prepare your child’s teeth by cleaning them and shaping them to receive the appliance.

STEP 3 TAKING IMPRESSIONS

Next, the dentist will take impressions of the teeth to create a custom-fitted space maintainer that will fit snugly over the prepared teeth.

STEP 4 FITTING THE SPACE MAINTAINER

Once the space maintainer has been created, it will be fitted onto the prepared teeth. The dentist will ensure that it fits properly and make any necessary adjustments.

STEP 5 FOLLOW-UP

After the space maintainers are installed, regular follow-up appointments will be necessary to ensure that they are working properly and to monitor the patient's progress.

Have Questions About Space Maintainers?FIND ANSWERS HERE

How Long Do Space Maintainers Need To Be Worn?

The duration a space maintainer needs to be worn depends on the child's age, the number of teeth involved, and the type of space maintainer used.Your dentist will provide specific instructions for how long you or your child will need to wear the appliance.

Will My Child Experience Any Discomfort When Wearing a Space Maintainer?

Your child may experience some discomfort when they first get a space maintainer. However, this discomfort should subside within a few days.

Can My Child Eat Normally With a Space Maintainer?

YES, your child should be able to eat normally with a space maintainer. However, they should avoid sticky or hard foods that could damage the appliance.

Dream Big Smile Bright

It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood! Stop by and say hi! 👋
It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood! Stop by and say hi! 👋
It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood! Stop by and say hi! 👋
It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood! Stop by and say hi! 👋