Space maintainers are orthodontic appliances used to preserve the space left by a lost primary (baby) tooth until the permanent tooth erupts. They are crucial in preventing adjacent teeth from drifting into the empty space, which can lead to misalignment and complications in the alignment of incoming permanent teeth.

Benefits

1. Prevents Teeth Shifting: Keeps the space open to allow proper alignment of permanent teeth.

2. Avoids Orthodontic Complications: Reduces the need for more complex orthodontic treatments later by preventing misalignment and overcrowding.

3. Promotes Proper Development: Ensures that the permanent teeth have adequate space to erupt correctly.

Usage

Space maintainers are typically recommended by an orthodontist or pediatric dentist when a primary tooth is lost prematurely due to decay or trauma. They are custom-designed and fitted to the patient’s mouth, and usually remain in place until the permanent tooth naturally emerges.