Pediatric Dentist Tyler, TX

If your child loses a baby tooth too soon, complications can arise. This can happen due to injury, tooth decay, and other reasons. When early tooth loss occurs, Dr. Ritchie may recommend a space maintainer for your child.

A space maintainer is a small acrylic or metal appliance that is custom-fabricated for your child’s mouth. It is inserted into the opening left by the missing tooth or teeth to hold the space open. The space maintainer is left in place until the permanent tooth begins to erupt.

The space maintainer helps keep surrounding teeth from shifting into the opening. Without that protection, your child may experience crowding, misalignment, and other issues for both baby and permanent teeth.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Tyler Pediatric Dentistry.