Space Maintainers in Sandy Springs, GA

Sandy Springs Space Maintainers

When baby teeth are lost too early, it can affect how permanent teeth come in—leading to crowding, misalignment, or bite issues down the road. At Artemis Smiles Orthodontics, we offer space maintainers in Sandy Springs, GA to help protect your child’s developing smile. These small, custom-made devices preserve the space left by a missing baby tooth and ensure there’s room for the permanent tooth to erupt properly. It’s a simple, proactive solution that can prevent more complex orthodontic problems in the future.

What Are Dental Space Maintainers?

A space maintainer is a small, comfortable appliance designed to hold open the space where a baby tooth was lost prematurely. Without this support, nearby teeth can shift into the gap, blocking the proper path for the permanent tooth. Space maintainers are especially helpful for younger children who lose a baby tooth before their adult teeth are ready to come in.

There are two main types:

• Fixed space maintainers — Cemented to nearby teeth and stay in place until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt.
• Removable space maintainers — Used in older children who can follow instructions for consistent wear and care.

At Artemis Smiles Orthodontics, we’ll recommend the best option based on your child’s age, dental development, and needs.

Why Would My Child Need a Space Maintainer?

There are several common reasons a child may benefit from a space maintainer:

• Early loss of a baby tooth due to decay or injury
• Delayed eruption of permanent teeth
• Prevention of crowding or shifting of adjacent teeth
• Maintaining proper bite alignment
• Supporting normal jaw growth and spacing

If space is not maintained after premature tooth loss, it may lead to more involved treatment later—such as braces or even tooth extractions.

Benefits of Space Maintainers

Using a space maintainer is a simple way to protect your child’s future smile. Benefits include:

• Prevents unwanted tooth movement
• Reduces the risk of crowding and misalignment
• Supports healthy eruption of permanent teeth
• Minimizes the need for more extensive orthodontic treatment
• Preserves facial balance and oral function during development

With regular checkups, we’ll monitor the appliance and your child’s growth to ensure everything stays on track.

What to Expect During Treatment

Getting a space maintainer is a quick and comfortable process. Here’s what you can expect:

• Evaluation & Imaging — We begin with a thorough exam and X-rays to determine the need for a space maintainer.
• Custom Design — If needed, we’ll take a digital scan or impression of your child’s mouth to design a perfect fit.
• Placement — Once the appliance is ready, we’ll bond or fit it in place, depending on the type. The process is painless and takes just one visit.
• Monitoring — We’ll schedule periodic checkups to ensure the space maintainer is doing its job and adjust or remove it once the permanent tooth is ready to erupt.

Does a Spacer Hurt?

Not at all! Most children experience little to no discomfort when a space maintainer is placed. It doesn’t move the teeth like braces do—it simply holds space open. Your child may feel something new in their mouth for a day or two, but this sensation fades quickly. Our team will ensure the fit is secure, comfortable, and easy to adjust to. If any irritation or concerns arise, we’re just a call away and happy to help.

Space Maintainers FAQs for Sandy Springs Families

Is a space maintainer really necessary?

Yes—if a baby tooth is lost too early, a space maintainer helps avoid crowding and misalignment that could require more extensive treatment later.

How long will my child need a space maintainer?

Most children wear a space maintainer until the permanent tooth begins to erupt—typically several months to a year, depending on their development.

How do I care for the space maintainer?

Good brushing, flossing, and avoiding sticky or hard foods are key. We’ll provide instructions tailored to the type of appliance your child receives.

Is this covered by insurance?

Many dental insurance plans cover space maintainers as part of early orthodontic care. Our team will help you check your benefits and financing options.

Why Choose Artemis Smiles Orthodontics?

At Artemis Smiles Orthodontics, we specialize in early intervention and preventative orthodontic care. We believe small steps now can make a big difference later. Our friendly, experienced team is here to guide you through every stage of your child’s development—from baby teeth to braces and beyond. With modern technology, personalized care, and a warm, welcoming environment, we make your child’s smile journey easy and stress-free.

Schedule your child’s free consultation today to find out if a space maintainer is the right step toward a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles.