Space Maintainers

What is the purpose of a space maintainer?

It is placed to keep an open space for a permanent tooth that has yet to erupt. We leave the maintainer there until a new permanent tooth could be seen.

What should you avoid?

• chewing gum
• eating sticky things like taffy and gummy bears
• hard items like corn nuts and ice

These snacks can get wrapped around the wire or bend the wire, causing the appliance to break or become loose.

• Your child should also avoid prying or poking at the wire with his/her fingers.

Checking the space maintainer periodically will ensure that it is still properly placed. If it happens to break or becomes loose,  please be sure to call our office immediately so that we can decide if the appliance needs to be re-cemented or re-made.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Written By: Dr. Ngo