A small appliance that keeps the gap open when a baby tooth is lost early, until the permanent tooth underneath comes through.

Baby teeth hold the place for the permanent teeth coming in underneath. If a baby tooth is lost too early because of decay or an injury, the neighbouring teeth can drift into the gap and leave no room for the permanent tooth.
A space maintainer is a small appliance used to keep this gap open until the permanent tooth comes through. Whether one is needed is decided with an X-ray, based on the tooth that was lost, the child’s age and when the permanent tooth underneath is expected.
If the gap is not kept open, these problems can occur:
Which type is suitable depends on where the lost tooth was and how many teeth were lost.
When the permanent tooth starts coming through, the dentist removes the space maintainer.
The lost tooth, the permanent tooth underneath and the gap are assessed.
An impression is taken; the appliance is made specially for the child.
The space maintainer is fitted and its use and cleaning are explained.
It is checked until the permanent tooth comes through, and removed when the time comes.
Space maintainer treatment is planned and followed up by our paediatric dentist.
MC Multi Clinic team · Efeler, Aydın
Check-ups, space maintainers and treatment of baby teeth for children.





After a baby tooth is lost, the gap can close quickly. So it is best not to delay the examination after a tooth is lost.
No. If the permanent tooth will come through soon, or the gap is not at risk of closing, it may not be needed. The decision is made with an X-ray.
Fitting it does not hurt. It may feel strange for the first few days; children usually get used to it quickly.
Until the permanent tooth underneath starts coming through. How long that takes depends on the tooth that was lost and the child’s age.
Keep the appliance and call the clinic; we will see whether it can be repaired or needs replacing.
Most foods are fine. Chewing gum, sticky sweets and very hard foods should be avoided.
To make an appointment you can call +90 256 212 46 46, message our WhatsApp line or fill in the appointment form on the website. The clinic is open weekdays 10:00–19:00 and Saturday 10:00–18:00.
