Baby teeth do more than help your child chew and speak clearly. They hold space for adult teeth to come in correctly. When a baby tooth is lost too early, the teeth around it can shift, causing problems later. 

That’s where space maintainers in Colorado Springs come into play. At Russ Ford Orthodontics, we provide this service to help kids grow into their best smiles without trouble down the road.

Call 719-782-7016 for an appointment.

What Are Space Maintainers?

Space maintainers are small dental appliances that hold open the spot where a baby tooth has been lost too soon. This ensures the adult tooth has enough room to come in properly. Without a space maintainer, nearby teeth may drift into the gap, making it harder for the adult tooth to come in and possibly leading to crowding or the need for braces later on.

Types of Maintainers

There are different types of space maintainers, and your child’s dentist or orthodontist will choose the one that works best for their needs.

Here are some common types:

Fixed (non-removable)

  • Band-and-loop: A metal band wraps around a tooth, and a small wire loop holds the space open.
  • Distal shoe: Used when a back tooth is lost early and the adult molar hasn’t come in yet.

Removable

These look like a retainer and are usually used for older kids who can follow care instructions.

Each type is custom-made to fit comfortably and do its job without getting in the way of eating or speaking.

Why Early Care Matters

Losing a baby tooth too soon can happen for many reasons — accidents, decay, or early removal. Without a space maintainer, the surrounding teeth can move quickly, making things harder when adult teeth start to grow in. This can lead to:

  • Crowded teeth
  • Crooked smiles
  • The need for more complicated treatments later
  • Higher dental costs in the future

Getting a space maintainer at the right time helps keep things simple and saves your child from avoidable problems.

Caring for a Space Maintainer

Keeping a space maintainer clean and in good shape is easy with a little care:

  • Brush and floss gently around it
  • Avoid sticky candies or gum
  • Visit the orthodontist regularly to check on it
  • Report any pain or looseness right away

These small steps can go a long way in protecting your child’s oral health.

Trust Russ Ford Orthodontics for the Right Care

At Russ Ford Orthodontics, we offer expert care with space maintainers in Colorado Springs. We work with parents and kids to find the best solution and make sure every visit is comfortable and helpful. Our team understands how important early treatment is and is here to support your child every step of the way.

If your child has lost a baby tooth early, now is the time to act. Space maintainers in Colorado Springs are a simple way to keep your child’s future smile on the right track.

Call Russ Ford Orthodontics today at 719-782-7016 for an appointment in Colorado Springs, CO. You can also ​​schedule online.