Free whitening kit included with checkup and cleaning. — (403) 291-4945 — Book Now

London Square Dental Centre

Space Maintainers for Kids in NE Calgary

Protect your child's smile from misalignment and crowding after early tooth loss.

Overview

Baby teeth do more than help your child chew, they serve as natural placeholders for the permanent teeth developing beneath them. When a baby tooth is lost too early, the surrounding teeth can drift into the gap, creating alignment problems that may require costly orthodontic treatment in the future. At our NE Calgary clinic, we use custom space maintainers to prevent these issues and guide your child's dental development on the right track.

Why Space Maintainers Matter

When a baby tooth falls out or is extracted before its time, the teeth on either side can gradually tilt or shift into the open space. This can block the permanent tooth from erupting in its correct position, leading to crowding, impaction, or crooked teeth. A space maintainer is a simple, proactive solution that preserves the gap until nature is ready to fill it, helping to prevent bite, chewing, and speech issues that can result from misaligned teeth.

Fixed Space Maintainers

Fixed space maintainers are cemented onto the teeth adjacent to the gap and remain in place until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt. Common types include band-and-loop maintainers, ideal for single tooth gaps, and lingual arch maintainers, used when multiple teeth are missing on one side. Fixed appliances are durable, require no daily removal, and work quietly in the background.

Removable Space Maintainers

For older children who can handle the responsibility, removable space maintainers offer a take in and out option that still holds the space open effectively. Your dentist will recommend the best type based on your child's age, the number of teeth involved, and their ability to care for the appliance.

Signs Your Child May Need a Space Maintainer

  • A baby tooth lost earlier than expected due to injury or decay
  • A baby tooth extracted well before the permanent tooth is ready to erupt
  • Visible gaps where nearby teeth appear to be shifting
  • A dentist's recommendation following a routine checkup

Why Choose London Square Dental for This

  • Custom fitted maintainers designed for your child's specific case
  • Both fixed and removable options to suit your child's needs
  • 20 plus years of experience with children's dentistry in NE Calgary
  • Direct insurance billing and 0% financing available
  • Open 7 days a week with flexible family scheduling

What to Expect at the Appointment

Your child's dentist will examine the gap and surrounding teeth to determine the best type of space maintainer. An impression is taken to custom fit the appliance, which is then placed at a follow up visit. We will check the fit and go over care instructions before you leave.

Related Treatments

If your child's teeth show early signs of crowding or misalignment beyond what a space maintainer can address, an early orthodontic evaluation and eventually Traditional Braces may be recommended. Regular visits for Sealants & Fluoride Treatment help protect your child's remaining teeth in the meantime.

Cost of Space Maintainers in Calgary

The cost of a space maintainer depends on whether a fixed or removable appliance is used and how many teeth are involved. We follow the Alberta Dental Fee Guide, direct bill most insurance providers, and offer 0% financing. Contact us for a personalized quote.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a child wear a space maintainer?
This varies depending on when the permanent tooth is expected to erupt, but it is typically several months to a couple of years. Your dentist will monitor progress at regular checkups.
Is a space maintainer painful for my child?
No, fitting a space maintainer is not painful. Your child may notice it for the first day or two, but most children adjust quickly.
What happens if we skip a space maintainer?
Without a space maintainer, nearby teeth can shift into the open gap, which may block the permanent tooth from coming in properly and lead to crowding or the need for orthodontic treatment later.
How do I care for my child's space maintainer?
Regular brushing and flossing around the appliance is important, and we recommend avoiding sticky or hard foods that could damage or dislodge it. Regular checkups let us monitor the fit and condition.
Will my child need braces later even with a space maintainer?
A space maintainer significantly reduces the risk of future alignment issues, but every child's dental development is different. We monitor your child's growth and will let you know if orthodontic treatment is recommended down the line.

Book Consultation

Concerned about a lost tooth affecting your child's smile. Book online or call (403) 291-4945 for space maintainers in NE Calgary.