Children's Care
Space Maintainers in Calgary NE
When a baby tooth is lost too early, the gap it leaves behind can cause bigger problems down the road. Cornerbrook Smiles Dental provides space maintainers to hold that space open until the permanent tooth is ready to come in, with appointments available seven days a week from 8am to 8pm. We serve families across Cornerstone, Cityscape, Redstone, and Skyview Ranch in northeast Calgary.
Part of Children's Care
Open 7 days a week
Overview
A space maintainer is a small custom fitted appliance used to hold open the gap left by a baby tooth that has been lost earlier than expected, whether from injury or early decay. Without one, nearby teeth can shift into the empty space, making it difficult or impossible for the permanent tooth to come in properly later on.
What Is a Space Maintainer
A space maintainer is a small, custom fitted appliance, typically made of metal, that attaches to the teeth on either side of the gap left by a lost baby tooth. It holds that space open, preventing neighbouring teeth from drifting into the gap, so the permanent tooth underneath has room to come in normally when it is ready.
Why Losing a Tooth Early Matters
Baby teeth act as natural placeholders for the permanent teeth developing underneath them. When a baby tooth is lost well before its permanent replacement is ready to erupt, whether due to an accident, injury, or early decay, the surrounding teeth can begin shifting into the empty space within just a few months. This shifting can lead to crowding, misalignment, or the permanent tooth coming in at an awkward angle or becoming impacted, sometimes requiring more extensive orthodontic treatment later to correct.
Types of Space Maintainers
The most common type is a band and loop space maintainer, which uses a metal band on the tooth next to the gap connected by a loop that holds the space open. Other designs may be used depending on which tooth was lost and whether one or both sides of the mouth are affected. Your dentist will recommend the type best suited to your child's specific situation.
What Is Included
- An exam to assess the gap and surrounding teeth
- A discussion of whether a space maintainer is recommended for your child's situation
- Fitting and placement of the custom space maintainer
- Guidance on caring for the appliance and follow up visits to monitor it
Why Patients Choose Us for This
- Prevents shifting that could complicate future tooth eruption
- Custom fitted for your child's specific situation
- A straightforward, well tolerated procedure for most kids
- Open seven days a week from 8am to 8pm
- Direct billing to most major insurance providers
What to Expect at Your Visit
- 1
We listen first.Tell us about the lost tooth and any concerns, and we will examine the area to determine if a space maintainer is recommended.
- 2
We explain your options.You will get an honest assessment of whether a space maintainer is needed, which type is appropriate, and a transparent estimate before any work starts.
- 3
We treat you with care.Placement is quick and generally well tolerated, and our team will explain how to care for the appliance at home.
Caring for a Space Maintainer
Space maintainers require normal brushing and flossing around the appliance, along with avoiding very sticky or hard foods that could damage or dislodge it. Regular checkups allow our team to monitor the space maintainer and the developing permanent tooth underneath, and it will be removed once the permanent tooth is ready to come in on its own.
Cost of Space Maintainers
The cost of a space maintainer depends on the type used and the complexity of your child's specific situation. Call us at (403) 300-4444 for a personalized quote, and ask about direct billing if you have dental insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are space maintainers really necessary?
When a baby tooth is lost well before its permanent replacement is ready, a space maintainer helps prevent neighbouring teeth from shifting into the gap, which can complicate the permanent tooth's eruption later. Your dentist can help determine if one is recommended for your child's situation.
Do space maintainers hurt?
Placement is generally quick and well tolerated, with little to no discomfort. Some children may need a short adjustment period to get used to the appliance in their mouth.
How long do space maintainers stay in?
This depends on how long it takes for the permanent tooth to be ready to erupt, which varies by child and by which tooth was lost. Your dentist will monitor progress at regular visits and remove the appliance once it is no longer needed.
How much do space maintainers cost?
Cost depends on the type of space maintainer and your child's specific situation. Call us at (403) 300-4444 for a personalized quote.
Are space maintainers covered by insurance?
Many dental insurance plans provide coverage for space maintainers as part of preventive pediatric care, though this varies by plan. Our team can help clarify your coverage.
Book Your Child's Appointment
Protect your child's smile from future complications with a space maintainer at Cornerbrook Smiles Dental. Book their appointment today.
Have a question first? Contact us and we will get back to you.