Space Maintainers in Calgary
Protect your child's smile from misalignment and crowding. Custom space maintainers keep the path clear for permanent teeth to grow in properly.
Baby teeth do more than help your child chew — they serve as natural placeholders for the permanent teeth developing beneath them. When a baby tooth is lost too early, the surrounding teeth can drift into the gap, creating alignment problems that may require costly orthodontic treatment in the future. At London Square Dental, we use custom space maintainers to prevent these issues and guide your child's dental development on the right track.
Why Space Maintainers Matter
When a baby tooth falls out or is extracted before its time, the teeth on either side can gradually tilt or shift into the open space. This can block the permanent tooth from erupting in its correct position, leading to crowding, impaction, or crooked teeth. A space maintainer is a simple, proactive solution that preserves the gap until nature is ready to fill it.
Fixed Space Maintainers
Fixed space maintainers are cemented onto the teeth adjacent to the gap and remain in place until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt. Common types include band-and-loop maintainers (ideal for single-tooth gaps) and lingual arch maintainers (used when multiple teeth are missing on one side). Fixed appliances are durable, require no daily removal, and work quietly in the background.
Removable Space Maintainers
For older children who can handle the responsibility, removable space maintainers offer a flexible alternative. Similar in appearance to a retainer, these appliances use acrylic material and wire clasps to hold the space open. They are easy to clean and can be removed for eating and brushing, making oral hygiene simple. Removable options may also include an artificial tooth for aesthetic purposes.
Care & Monitoring
Caring for a space maintainer is straightforward. Your child should avoid sticky or hard foods that could dislodge the appliance, and continue regular brushing and flossing around it. We monitor the space maintainer at every dental visit to ensure it remains properly fitted and check on the progress of the incoming permanent tooth. Once the new tooth begins to emerge, we remove the appliance.
Benefits of Space Maintainers
How Space Maintainers Prevent Misalignment
Prevent Teeth Shifting
Nearby teeth may shift into the space without a maintainer, causing crowding and alignment issues.
Ensure Proper Tooth Eruption
Helps the permanent tooth come in at the right spot, avoiding impaction or misplacement.
Reduce Future Orthodontic Problems
Lowers the chances of needing braces or other orthodontic treatments later in life.
Improve Long-Term Dental Health
Prevents issues with bite, chewing, and speech that can result from misaligned teeth.
Types of Space Maintainers
Fixed Space Maintainers (Permanently Cemented)
- Band-and-Loop: Holds space for a single missing tooth
- Crown-and-Loop: Uses a dental crown for added strength
- Lingual Arch: Helps when multiple teeth are missing
Removable Space Maintainers
- Made from acrylic or metal for a comfortable fit
- Suitable for older children who can follow care instructions
The Simple Steps to Fitting a Space Maintainer
- 1
Consultation & Examination
We assess whether a space maintainer is necessary based on your child's dental development.
- 2
Custom Impression & Design
We take a mold of your child's teeth to create a precisely fitted appliance.
- 3
Placement & Adjustment
The space maintainer is cemented in place (fixed) or adjusted for comfort (removable).
- 4
Follow-Up Monitoring
Regular check-ups to guarantee proper placement and monitor the incoming permanent tooth.
Caring for Your Child's Space Maintainer
- Brush and floss around the appliance daily
- Avoid sticky or hard foods (gum, caramel, hard candies)
- Don't let your child push or pull on the appliance
- Attend all follow-up visits as scheduled
- Contact us immediately if it becomes loose or damaged
Why Skipping a Space Maintainer Can Lead to Bigger Problems
- Teeth shift into empty spaces, leading to crowding
- Misalignment affecting bite and dental structure
- Longer orthodontic treatments needed to correct problems
“A simple space maintainer today can prevent major corrections later.”
Why Choose London Square Dental
What Our Patients Say
“I was in pain and texted my friend Fe who booked me right away! Dr. Poonam was so gentle and kind. Front staff are nice and welcoming. I'm coming back for more treatment!”
— Sheryle
“Beena, my dental hygienist, is incredibly professional, gentle, and kind. Her attention to detail makes every visit pleasant. I highly recommend her!”
— Junu
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Frequently Asked Questions
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