A space maintainer is a dental appliance designed to hold the space left behind when a primary (baby) tooth is lost too soon. It ensures that nearby teeth do not drift into the open gap, which could block the proper eruption of the permanent tooth underneath.
They are typically made from metal, acrylic, or a combination of both, and come in fixed or removable forms depending on your child’s age, dental needs, and location of the missing tooth.
Baby teeth aren’t just placeholders — they guide permanent teeth into their correct position. When a baby tooth falls out too early (due to decay, trauma, or extraction), the adjacent teeth may start shifting into the empty space. This can:
Cause crowding or crooked teeth
Prevent permanent teeth from erupting correctly
Lead to bite issues (malocclusion)
Increase the need for braces later on
A space maintainer prevents these problems by holding the gap open until the adult tooth is ready to come in.
At York House Dental Practice, we offer several types of space maintainers depending on your child’s specific needs:
These are cemented to existing teeth and remain in place until the adult tooth erupts.
Band and Loop: A stainless steel band is placed around one tooth, with a loop that extends into the gap.
Distal Shoe: Used when the first permanent molar hasn’t erupted yet; it guides the incoming molar.
Lingual Arch: Typically used when multiple teeth are missing on the lower arch.
Similar to retainers, these can be taken out for cleaning and are typically used for older children who can follow hygiene instructions.
We will guide you on the most appropriate type based on your child’s age, tooth development, and oral health.
Our dentists will examine your child’s teeth using X-rays and a clinical evaluation to determine if a space maintainer is needed and what type will work best.
We take impressions (moulds) of your child’s mouth to create a custom-fit device that fits comfortably and securely.
Once the space maintainer is ready, we’ll schedule a second appointment to place it. Fixed maintainers are cemented in place, while removable ones are fitted and adjusted for comfort.
We’ll monitor your child’s teeth at regular check-ups to ensure the appliance is doing its job and the permanent teeth are developing properly.
The procedure is completely painless, non-invasive, and requires no needles or drilling.
Prevents tooth crowding and misalignment
Reduces the need for future orthodontic treatment
Guides permanent teeth into proper position
Protects bite alignment and jaw development
Custom-fit and comfortable for everyday wear
Supports long-term oral health from a young age
Investing in a space maintainer now can save your child from more complex and costly treatments later in life.
Proper care of a space maintainer is key to its success. Here’s what you and your child should keep in mind:
Avoid sticky or hard foods (gum, caramel, hard candy) which can loosen or damage the device
Maintain excellent oral hygiene, brushing twice a day and flossing regularly
Monitor for discomfort or loosening — contact us if the appliance feels unstable
Attend regular check-ups so we can track your child’s tooth development and remove the maintainer when no longer needed
Removable devices should be worn as instructed and cleaned daily with a toothbrush and mild soap
If cared for properly, a space maintainer can stay in place comfortably until the permanent tooth erupts.
The maintainer will be removed once the permanent tooth starts to erupt naturally in its correct position. Timing can vary depending on your child’s age and development. Regular dental check-ups allow us to monitor progress and remove the device at the right time.
Yes — space maintainers are a safe and proven solution used by paediatric dentists worldwide. Most children adapt to their space maintainer within a few days. It does not affect speech or eating once they get used to it, and it can prevent major orthodontic problems from developing.
At York House Dental Practice in West Byfleet, we pride ourselves on offering family-focused dental care in a calm and welcoming environment. We specialise in gentle, preventive treatments for children, using the latest techniques and a compassionate approach.
Experienced with children’s dental development
Friendly, caring team that puts kids at ease
Customised solutions based on your child’s needs
Transparent communication with parents at every step
Convenient appointments for families
We’re here to support your child’s smile, now and in the future.
If your child has lost a baby tooth early, don’t wait until problems arise. Book an assessment with our team at York House Dental Practice and explore how space maintainers can help guide your child’s smile in the right direction.
