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Space Maintainersin North Carolina
Losing a baby tooth early can affect how your child’s adult teeth grow in, but a space maintainer can help keep their smile on track. At Lume, our pediatric specialists design and place space maintainers that are comfortable, effective, and tailored to your child’s needs.
What Is a Space Maintainer?
Space maintainers are small, custom dental appliances used when a baby tooth is lost too early due to injury, decay, or extraction. Their purpose is to hold the gap open so that the adult tooth can erupt in the correct position. Without a space maintainer, nearby teeth may drift or tilt into the space, causing crowding or bite issues down the line. At Lume, we offer both fixed and removable options, and our team will recommend the best type based on your child’s needs and stage of dental development.
The Benefits of Space Maintenance
Space maintainers are a proactive way to support proper dental development and reduce the risk of future orthodontic issues. They’re simple, painless to place, and easy for most children to adjust to. Our providers walk you and your child through every step of the process to ensure a smooth experience and lasting results.
Protects future tooth alignment
Space maintainers help guide adult teeth into their proper position, lowering the chance of crowding or impaction.
Non-invasive and comfortable
Placement is quick and easy, and most children adjust to their space maintainer within a few days.
Supports overall oral health
By preserving alignment, space maintainers reduce the need for more complex treatments later on.
The Space Maintainer Treatment Process
At Lume, we make the process simple and stress-free, from evaluation to placement. Our pediatric dental team ensures your child understands what’s happening and feels confident every step of the way.
Evaluation and Planning
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We begin with an exam and X-rays to determine whether a space maintainer is needed and which type is best for your child.
Custom Appliance Design
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Impressions or digital scans are taken to create a space maintainer that fits comfortably and functions properly.
Placement Appointment
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3
Once the appliance is ready, we place it in a quick and gentle procedure, then check for fit and comfort.
Follow-Up and Maintenance
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We monitor the space maintainer at routine checkups and provide detailed instructions for care at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions about space maintainers? We’re here to help you make informed, confident decisions for your child’s dental health.
If a baby tooth is lost too early and the adult tooth isn’t ready to come in, a space maintainer helps ensure healthy alignment.
Yes—most children adjust quickly and resume normal activities within a few days.
They’re temporary and will be removed once the permanent tooth is ready to erupt.
Good brushing, flossing, and avoiding sticky foods are key to keeping the appliance clean and secure.
Space maintainers can reduce the risk of orthodontic problems, but braces may still be recommended depending on individual needs.
Still have questions?
Give us a call to speak with one of our friendly team members or to schedule an appointment.
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