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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Space Maintainers in Tillsonburg
Lost a baby tooth too early? A space maintainer can hold room for the adult tooth. When Tillsonburg parents might need one and how it is cared for.
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Every dental service for Tillsonburg patientsHolding room for adult teeth
An early gap can affect where adult teeth come in.
Baby teeth hold space for the adult teeth developing underneath. If a baby tooth is lost early because of decay or injury, neighbouring teeth can drift into the gap, leaving less room for the adult tooth. A space maintainer is a small appliance that keeps the gap open until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt.
Tillsonburg families can discuss space maintainers at our Port Dover office if a child loses a baby tooth early. Because the appliance is custom made and checked over time, asking about the number of visits helps you plan around school and travel.
When needed
Not every early gap needs an appliance.
Reasons a space maintainer may be suggested
A space maintainer may be suggested when a back baby tooth is lost well before the adult tooth is due, particularly molars that hold space for larger teeth. The dentist considers the child’s age, which tooth was lost and X-rays showing the adult tooth’s development before making a recommendation.
Situations where it may not be needed
If the adult tooth is close to erupting, or if the lost tooth is a front tooth with less risk of drifting, a maintainer may not be necessary. Ask the dentist why they do or do not recommend one, and what monitoring would be appropriate instead.
Types
Different designs suit different situations.
Fixed space maintainers
Fixed maintainers are cemented to neighbouring teeth and typically consist of a band and wire that span the gap. They stay in place until the dentist removes them. Children cannot lose them, but they need careful cleaning around the band and wire.
Removable space maintainers
Removable maintainers resemble small retainers and can be taken out for cleaning. They may be used in certain situations, especially when more than one tooth is missing. They rely on the child wearing them consistently. Ask which type suits your child’s age, habits and needs.
Fitting
Fitting usually takes two short visits.
Taking measurements
The dentist takes impressions or scans of your child’s teeth and may fit bands around the neighbouring teeth. These measurements are used to make the appliance. Explain the process to your child in simple terms, such as making a small helper to save space for a new tooth.
Placing and checking the appliance
At the next visit, the appliance is placed and checked for fit and comfort. Fixed maintainers are cemented in place. Your child may feel some pressure or notice the appliance with their tongue at first. Plan these visits from Tillsonburg around times when your child is rested.
Care and review
Care at home and regular checks keep it working.
Daily cleaning and eating tips
Help your child brush around the appliance carefully, as food can collect near bands and wires. Avoid sticky candy, gum and very hard foods that could loosen or bend it. Discourage pushing at it with the tongue or fingers. Contact the Port Dover office if it loosens, breaks or causes soreness.
Regular checks until removal
The dentist checks the appliance at regular visits and monitors the adult tooth’s progress on X-rays. Once the permanent tooth begins to erupt, the maintainer is removed. Coordinate checks with routine exams to reduce extra trips.
Planning your appointment
Discuss space maintainers from Tillsonburg.
Call our Port Dover office if your child has lost a baby tooth early. Ask whether an assessment for a space maintainer is recommended.
Mention which tooth was lost, how it happened and when, along with any concerns about your child’s comfort.
Port Dover Family Dentistry
697 Norfolk County Hwy 6, Unit 2, Port Dover, ON N0A 1N2519-583-2929Directions to our office (opens in a new tab)Office hours & contact detailsBefore you book
Space maintainer questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
Why does my child need a space maintainer?
If a baby tooth is lost early, nearby teeth may drift into the space, leaving less room for the adult tooth. A maintainer keeps the gap open until the permanent tooth is ready to come in.
Does getting a space maintainer hurt?
Fitting is usually comfortable and does not require freezing. Some children feel pressure or notice the appliance at first. Most adjust quickly, and the team can help explain the process to your child.
How long will my child wear it?
Until the adult tooth begins to erupt, which varies from months to a few years. The dentist monitors progress with regular checks and X-rays and removes the appliance at the right time.
What if the space maintainer comes loose?
Contact the office for advice. Keep the appliance if it comes out, and avoid letting your child play with it. The dentist can check whether it can be recemented or needs replacing.
Can my child eat normally with a space maintainer?
Most foods are fine, but sticky candy, gum and very hard foods should be avoided. Cutting food into smaller pieces may help. Brushing carefully around the appliance after meals is important.
Related growth and development topics
Children’s Dentistry →Early Orthodontic Assessments →
An early bite check tracks how a child’s teeth and jaws develop. Signs Tillsonburg parents can watch for and what the assessment in Port Dover looks at.
Children’s Dental Exams →
A child’s dental exam tracks growth as well as cavities. Tillsonburg parents can see what our Port Dover team checks and how to make the trip easier for kids.