A Gentle Start For
Growing Smiles
Space maintainers help protect your child’s developing smile by preserving room for permanent teeth to come in naturally.
What Is aSpace Maintainer?
A space maintainer is a small, custom-made appliance used when a child loses a baby tooth too early. It holds the space open so neighboring teeth don’t shift into the gap, allowing permanent teeth to erupt in the correct position.
Why Orthodontists
Recommend an Evaluation by Age 7
By age 7, children have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, allowing our Greeley orthodontists to detect subtle problems before they become more complex.
Spot developing bite problems
Monitor jaw growth
Identify crowding or spacing concerns
Plan proactive treatment when needed
Early evaluation doesn’t always mean early treatment—but it ensures your child’s smile is developing on the right path.
Why Starting Early Makes a
Big Difference
Preserves Natural Space
Space maintainers keep the right amount of room open so permanent teeth can come in without crowding.
Prevents Shifting Teeth
Without guidance, nearby teeth can drift into open spaces—making future alignment more difficult.
Reduces Future Treatment Needs
By maintaining proper spacing early, more complex orthodontic treatment can often be avoided or simplified later.
Supports Healthy Development
Holding space at the right time helps teeth erupt in a more natural, balanced position.
Your Child's Smile Journey, Simplified
01
Smile Evaluation
We assess your child's teeth and determine if early tooth loss could affect future alignment.
02
Custom Fit
A space maintainer is carefully designed to fit your child's mouth comfortably and securely.
03
Easy Placement
The appliance is placed gently and quickly, with minimal adjustment needed.
04
Growth Monitoring
We check progress over time and remove the appliance when the permanent tooth is ready to come in.
Gentle Care Parents Can Trust
Not sure if your child needs a space maintainer? Schedule a free consultation at Greeley Family Orthodontics, and get expert guidance for your child’s smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does a child need a space maintainer?
A space maintainer is typically recommended when a baby tooth is lost too early, and there’s a risk of surrounding teeth shifting.
Is a space maintainer uncomfortable?
Most children adjust quickly, and the appliance is designed to be lightweight and comfortable for everyday wear.
How long does my child need to wear it?
It depends on when the permanent tooth is ready to erupt, but your orthodontist will monitor progress and remove it at the right time.
Can my child eat normally with a space maintainer?
Yes, though we may recommend avoiding very sticky or hard foods to protect the appliance.
What happens if we don't use one when needed?
Without a space maintainer, nearby teeth can shift into the open space, potentially leading to crowding or more complex orthodontic issues later.
Stories from Our Smile Family
Visit Our Greeley Office
Phone
970-457-9920
Hours
Mon-Thurs: 8:30am - 4:30pm | Friday: 7:30am -2:30pm
Address
1911 59th Avenue, Greeley, CO 80634