If a child has lost a baby tooth too early, a space maintainer can help keep the gap open until the adult tooth comes through.
What is it?
A small, stainless steel band and loop device is attached to one of the teeth next to the space.it holds the gap open and prevent the neighboring teeth from shifting until the permanent tooth erupts and comes into place.
How long will the child wear the space maintainer?
Kids space maintainer can be there for a long time, but they are never permanent. They are typically removed when the new, permanent tooth begins to erupt or nearby abutment teeth become loose.
Types:
There are two types of space maintainer for children:
- Removable: they are similar to orthodontic appliances and are usually made of acrylic.
- Fixed: there are four different kinds of fixed space maintainers: unilateral, crown and loop, distal shoe and lingual.
Contraindications of using a space maintainer for children? Poor oral hygiene
High Carie’s risk Uncooperative
Irregular attendance, as the gingival tissue may grow over the space maintainer, necessitating surgical removal of the appliance.
