At Biodent, the oral health of the little ones is our priority. Baby teeth are crucial for the development of your child's mouth, guiding the eruption of the permanent teeth. If a baby tooth is lost too early, space maintainers come into play — a fundamental tool in paediatric dentistry that we explain today.
What are space maintainers and why are they necessary?
A space maintainer is an appliance designed to preserve the gap left by the premature loss of a baby tooth. Its purpose is to stop the neighbouring teeth from shifting and blocking the correct eruption of the permanent tooth. Think of baby teeth as "signposts": if one disappears, the permanent teeth can drift or get stuck.
Early loss, due to decay or trauma, makes the neighbouring teeth move and close the gap. This can lead to crowding, misalignment or an impacted permanent tooth.
The importance of baby teeth
Baby teeth are not just for chewing. They fulfil vital functions:
- Chewing and nutrition.
- Speech and language development.
- Appearance and self-esteem.
- Eruption guide: they keep the space and guide the permanent teeth.
- Jaw development.
If a baby tooth is lost too early, the space can close up, affecting appearance and function and leading to more complex orthodontic treatment. A space maintainer is a preventive measure that can save discomfort and costs in the future.
Types of space maintainers
There are different types, and the choice depends on the lost tooth, the child's age and their cooperation. They are classified as fixed or removable:
Fixed space maintainers:
They are cemented to the teeth and cannot be taken out; they are the most common because of their effectiveness.
- Band and loop: the most frequent. A band on an adjacent tooth and a wire that stops the space from closing. Ideal when a single baby molar or premolar is lost.
- Crown and loop: with a crown covering the adjacent tooth when it needs restoring.
- Lingual arch: to maintain space on both sides of the lower jaw.
- Transpalatal bar: for the upper jaw.
Removable space maintainers:
Similar to a partial denture, they can be taken out. They are used when several teeth are missing or to restore appearance and function. They require excellent hygiene and cooperation.
Care and removal of the space maintainer
Once fitted, it is crucial to follow these guidelines:
- Strict hygiene: brush the appliance well and use rinses if recommended.
- Avoid sticky foods: they can damage or dislodge the maintainer.
- Regular check-ups: so the dentist can check the appliance and the correct eruption of the permanent tooth.
The maintainer is removed when the permanent tooth is ready to erupt and has enough space. The dentist will monitor this process.
At Biodent we believe in preventive dentistry. A space maintainer is a simple, effective measure to avoid bigger dental problems, ensuring your child's permanent teeth have the room they need to come through. It is an investment in their long-term oral health.
If your child has lost a baby tooth too early or you have any concerns, contact us. Our medical team at Biodent, with clinics in Torrevieja and Ciudad Quesada (Alicante), is at your disposal to advise you and offer the most appropriate solution. We look after your family's smile!