Space Maintenance and Orthodontics

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist for a consultation at age 7, or before if problems are noticed.   Our practice supports this recommendation. 

Pediatric dentists and orthodontists often use appliances known as space maintainers. These are special appliances which are designed to hold the space that is created if a deciduous (baby) tooth is lost early so that the permanent tooth has room to come in (erupt). Space maintainers require minimal care after delivery.

Please follow these simple instructions:

• Minimize or eliminate all carbonated beverages from your child’s diet. The carbonation will weaken the cement and the appliance may come out.

• Please do not give your child any sticky, chewy foods, such as:

o Candied apples
o Chewing gum
o Fruit roll-ups
o Gummy bears
o Jolly Ranchers
o Peanut brittle
o Taffy

*Chewing on ice cubes is also not advised.

• If your child complains that the space maintainer is loose, or if you notice that the permanent tooth is beginning to come in, please call our office.

• Keep the space maintainer as clean as the day your child received it by brushing regularly, especially around the gums.

• In case your child has a wire poking them or a loose band, please call our office.