Space Maintainers

Why Baby Teeth Hold Space

Baby teeth do more than help kids chew. They also save room for the adult teeth waiting underneath. If one is lost early, nearby teeth can move into the empty spot, which may leave less space for the adult tooth to come in properly.

What Is a Space Maintainer?

A space maintainer is a small device made to fit your child's mouth. It sits where the tooth was lost and keeps the gap open until the adult tooth is ready. Because every child's mouth is different, we custom-fit it.

When Your Dentist May Recommend One

• A baby tooth was lost to decay or injury earlier than expected
• A tooth had to be removed and the adult tooth is still a way off
• You notice neighbouring teeth starting to lean toward a gap

Whether your child needs one depends on the tooth, their age and how their mouth is developing. Your dentist explains the reasoning before recommending anything.

What the Visit Looks Like

1. A friendly welcome and a chat with your child about what will happen.
2. A thorough, gentle exam, with digital imaging when it is needed.
3. A conversation with you about whether a space maintainer makes sense.
4. If so, a custom fitting and a plan for follow-up visits.

Your dentist explains each step in age-appropriate language so your child knows what to expect.

Caring for a Space Maintainer at Home

Keep brushing and flossing around the device and help younger children do a thorough job. Sticky and very hard foods may be worth avoiding. Bring your child to check-ups about every six months so we can confirm the device still fits. Ask us for brushing and flossing tips that suit your child's age.

Space Maintainer Cost and Insurance

We follow the ADA Fee Guide with transparent pricing and give you a detailed estimate before any work begins. We accept the Alberta Child Health Benefit, direct bill most insurance plans and help you get the most from your benefits. Flexible payment options, including 0% financing, are available.

Why Choose Oasis for Your Child's Dental Care in NE Calgary

Families come to our 20 Ave NE clinic in T1Y from across Northeast Calgary, including Abbeydale, Falconridge, Taradale, Marlborough and Monterey Park. We are open seven days a week from 9 AM to 8 PM, we welcome walk-ins for emergencies and our team speaks English, Punjabi, Arabic and Tagalog.

More Care for Growing Teeth

Explore all of our children's dentistry services, including sealants and fluoride treatments to help lower cavity risk. If a tooth is knocked out or your child is in pain, call right away and see our emergency dentist page.

Frequently Asked Questions