Space Maintainers in Banff
Holding room for what comes next. A space maintainer at Rocky Mountain Dental keeps the gap open after an early lost baby tooth, so the permanent tooth can erupt where it belongs.
About Space Maintainers
A space maintainer is custom made by a dentist using acrylic or metal material. It can be either removable or cemented in a child's mouth. Its purpose is to keep the space open to allow the permanent tooth to erupt and come into place, preventing nearby teeth from shifting into the gap before the adult tooth is ready.
What Is a Space Maintainer
When a baby tooth is lost earlier than expected, whether from injury or early extraction, nearby teeth can begin shifting into the empty space. A space maintainer, often a band and loop design fitted around a neighbouring tooth, holds that gap open so the permanent tooth underneath has a clear, correctly sized path to erupt into.
Who This Helps
Space maintainers are recommended for children in specific situations.
- A baby tooth lost significantly earlier than its natural timeline
- A tooth extracted due to extensive decay before the permanent tooth is ready
- Cases where shifting teeth risk crowding or misalignment
- Children whose dentist has identified a gap needing protection during a check-up
- Families wanting to avoid more complex orthodontic correction later
What Is Included
- An examination and X-rays to confirm a space maintainer is needed
- Selection of the appropriate design, often a band and loop style
- An impression or fitting to create the custom appliance
- Placement of the space maintainer, cemented or fitted as appropriate
- Follow up visits to monitor the space and the erupting permanent tooth
Why Choose Rocky Mountain Dental for This
Our team takes time to explain why a space maintainer is being recommended, using X-rays to show exactly what is happening beneath the gum line. We aim to make the fitting process as comfortable as possible for young patients, with clear guidance for parents on what to expect while it is in place.
What to Expect at Your Visit
- An examination and X-rays to confirm the need for a space maintainer.
- A discussion of the appropriate design based on your child's specific situation.
- An impression or fitting appointment to create the custom appliance.
- Placement of the space maintainer, performed comfortably and efficiently.
- Follow up visits to monitor the space and confirm the permanent tooth is on track.
Recovery and Aftercare
There is no recovery period after a space maintainer is fitted, though your child may need a day or two to adjust to the feel of it in their mouth. Regular brushing and flossing around the appliance is important to keep the area clean, and your dentist will monitor it at follow up visits to confirm it remains secure and effective.
Related Treatments
Space maintainers are often discussed alongside dental sealants and fluoride treatments as part of a broader plan to protect a child's developing smile.
Cost of Space Maintainers
The cost of a space maintainer depends on the design used and the complexity of your child's specific situation. For an accurate estimate based on your needs, please contact our team for a personalised quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are space maintainers covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by provider and plan. Our team can help you understand what your specific insurance covers once a treatment plan is recommended.
Are space maintainers really necessary?
When a baby tooth is lost significantly earlier than expected, a space maintainer helps prevent nearby teeth from shifting into the gap, which can reduce the risk of crowding or misalignment later.
Do space maintainers hurt?
Fitting a space maintainer is generally quick and comfortable, with most children adjusting to the feel of it within a day or two.
How long do space maintainers stay in place?
A space maintainer typically stays in place until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt, which your dentist will monitor at regular check-ups.
How much do space maintainers cost?
Cost depends on the design used and your child's specific situation. Contact our team for a personalised quote based on your needs.
Book Your Appointment
Concerned about an early lost tooth? Book an appointment today and our team will assess whether a space maintainer is the right next step.
