Space maintainers are dental devices used in pediatric dentistry to preserve the spaces left by prematurely lost primary (baby) teeth.
Space maintainers prevent these problems by holding the space open until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt.
Consist of a metal band fitted around a tooth adjacent to the empty space, with a wire loop extending into the space to hold it open.
These space maintainers in pediatric dentistry are used when the primary second molar is lost before the eruption of the permanent first molar.
Removable appliances that replace one or more missing teeth and include artificial teeth and clasps to hold them in place.
By preserving the spaces between primary teeth, space maintainers help prevent crowding and misalignment of permanent teeth.
Fixed space maintainers in pediatric dentistry are custom-made in a dental laboratory using impressions taken from the patient’s mouth.
Routine dental visits are essential to monitor the condition of the space maintainer, ensure proper functioning.
By preventing dental crowding, guiding the eruption of permanent teeth, and maintaining oral function, space maintainers contribute to optimal dental development.