In general, a fixed space maintainer is a semi-permanent tooth fixture that keeps enough space open for the adult tooth to grow in. After the permanent tooth has grown in, the maintainer can be removed. There are four types of fixed space maintainers that a pediatric dentist can use to care for your child's teeth.

Primary teeth have many important roles in the health and development of our young patients. Primary teeth are vital to chewing, speaking, smiling, aesthetics and holding space in the jaws for the developing permanent teeth.1 In some cases when a primary tooth is lost due to trauma, infection or early exfoliation, a malocclusion can result due to the unfavourable movement of adjacent teeth. The use of space maintainers can be utilized to prevent the unwanted movement of teeth that create malocclusions and to allow the appropriate space for the succedaneous tooth to erupt

In my interactions with dentists and dental students, space maintainers always seem to be a topic that creates confusion and discomfort. The circumstances in which a space maintainer is required, and how to effectively design the appliance to prevent the creation of a malocclusion seem to be the two most common concerns. The purpose of this article is to guide clinicians in the treatment planning process and to help demystify the topic.