Space maintainers are needed to ensure proper growth for a child’s teeth and jaw if a baby tooth is lost too soon. When the tooth is lost too early, spacers are used to protect the spot for when the permanent tooth grows in.  If the space is not protected, surrounding teeth can move into the open spot, which would affect the growth and position of the incoming tooth. Our metal space maintainers are custom made to fit your child’s mouth. After having a spacer done, proper maintenance ensures better results. Here are some helpful tips: avoid chewy and sticky sweets, follow your dentist’s instructions on brushing and flossing, and do not touch or move the spacer with the fingers or tongue.