Children's Dentistry
Space Maintainers for Kids in West Jordan
When a baby tooth is lost too early, a space maintainer holds the gap open so the adult tooth has room to come in straight, often reducing or simplifying the need for braces later.
Holds room for the adult tooth
It keeps neighboring teeth from drifting into the gap.
Custom and comfortable
Most kids adjust within a day or two and soon forget it's there.
Fewer problems later
Protecting the space now can simplify future orthodontic care.
What a Space Maintainer Is
A space maintainer is a small, custom appliance that holds open the gap left when a baby tooth is lost early. It keeps neighboring teeth from drifting in, so the permanent tooth has room to erupt in the right place.
How We Fit and Care for It
Fitting a space maintainer is quick and comfortable. Here's the whole process.
- 1
A quick mold
We take a simple impression so the appliance fits just right.
- 2
Custom-fit the spacer
We place the small, custom maintainer at the next visit.
- 3
Your child adjusts fast
Most kids get used to it within a day or two.
- 4
Check at each visit
We monitor it at routine visits and remove it when the adult tooth is ready.
Why Holding Space Matters
Baby teeth guide the adult teeth into position. If one is lost early to decay or injury and the gap closes, the permanent tooth can come in crowded or crooked. Maintaining the space now can reduce or simplify future orthodontic treatment.
When & Who It's For
We consider a space maintainer whenever a baby tooth comes out well before the adult tooth is ready, often after an early extraction or injury. Because we offer dentistry and orthodontics together under one roof, we can watch your child's developing bite over time and act at the right moment.
A small step now can save your child bigger orthodontic work later, and it's something most kids forget they're even wearing.
Where to Find Us in West Jordan
Our Southpoint office sits near 9000 South and 1300 West in West Jordan, just east of Redwood Road and about a mile east of Bangerter Highway. We're minutes from Gardner Village, Veterans Memorial Park, and Jordan Valley Medical Center, with free parking right out front.
Wasatch Pediatrics Dentistry & Orthodontics: Southpoint 9071 S 1300 W Suite 100 West Jordan, UT 84088 (801) 676-3700 Call to BookAlso Serving Families Near West Jordan
Just outside West Jordan? We welcome patients from across Salt Lake County.
Common Questions About Space Maintainers
Does my child need a space maintainer?
If a baby tooth is lost early, a space maintainer is often recommended to protect room for the adult tooth. We'll evaluate your child and advise you.
Is a space maintainer uncomfortable?
Most children adjust within a day or two and soon forget it is there. It is custom-fit for comfort.
How long does my child wear it?
Until the permanent tooth is ready to come in. We monitor it at regular checkups and remove it at the right time.
Protect your child's developing smile
Call (801) 676-3700 and we'll check if one is needed.