Baltimore Dental . COM
*CHILDREN'S TEETH*
Space Maintenance
Q: Why do children lose their baby teeth?
A: A baby tooth usually stays in until a permanent tooth underneath pushes it out and
takes its place. Unfortunately, some children lose a baby tooth too soon. A tooth might be
knocked out accidentally or removed because of dental disease. When a tooth is lost too
early, your pediatric dentist may recommend a space maintainer to prevent future space
loss and dental problems.
Q: Why all the fuss? Baby teeth fall out eventually on their own!
A: Baby teeth are important to your child's present and future dental health. They
encourage normal development of the jaw bones and muscles. They save space for the
permanent teeth and guide them into position. Remember: Some baby teeth are not replaced
until a child is 12 or 14 years old.
Q: How does a lost baby tooth cause problems for permanent teeth?
A: If a baby tooth is lost too soon, the teeth beside it may tilt or drift into the empty
space. Teeth in the other jaw may move up or down to fill the gap. When adjacent teeth
shift into the empty space, they create a lack of space in the jaw for the permanent
teeth. So, permanent teeth are crowded and come in crooked. If left untreated, the
condition may require extensive orthodontic treatment.
Q: What are space maintainers?
A: Space maintainers are appliances made of metal or plastic that are custom fit to your
child's mouth. They are small and unobtrusive in appearance. Most children easily adjust
to them after the first few days.
Q: How does a space maintainer help?
A: Space maintainers hold open the empty space left by a lost tooth. They steady the
remaining teeth, preventing movement until the permanent tooth takes its natural position
in the jaw. It's more affordable -- and easier on your child -- to keep teeth in normal
positions with a space maintainer than to move them back in place with orthodontic
treatment.
Q: What special care do space maintainers need?
A: Pediatric dentists have four rules for space maintainer care. First, avoid sticky
sweets or chewing gum. Second, don't tug or push on the space maintainer with your fingers
or tongue. Third, keep it clean with conscientious brushing and flossing. Fourth, continue
regular dental visits.
