Informed Consent | Space Maintainers

Space maintainers are a way of keeping other teeth from drifting into the area left open after a primary (baby) back tooth has been extracted. If a primary molar tooth is decayed or damaged beyond repair and must be removed to prevent pain and/or infection, a space maintainer should be placed to decrease the chances of crowding and crooked alignment of the permanent teeth. Space maintainers are either removed or they fall out on their own as the permanent teeth erupt. Fixed space maintainers are fastened to an adjacent primary tooth with a small wire that holds against another tooth to keep the space open. Removable space maintainers accomplish the same purpose with a custom made appliance that must be worn until the permanent tooth erupts.

Benefits and alternatives

The proposed space maintainer will hold open the space so that the permanent tooth will be able to erupt into its correct position and alignment. Without a space maintainer, the remaining teeth drift into the space before the permanent tooth erupts resulting in loss of space. When this has occurred, the permanent tooth is forced to move out of alignment and comes in crooked.

Common risks

  1. Looseness: Occasionally a fixed space maintainer will become loose. If this happens it can be uncomfortable and if left unattended, cause decay on the tooth holding it. If a space maintainer becomes loose or comes out, an appointment should be made as soon as possible to re-cement.
  2. Food trap: Occasionally food can get caught under the spacer wire. Usually this is easily removed with the tongue or toothbrush however, Dr. Pierson will always be happy to assist if necessary.
  3. Loss or damage: Removable space maintainers are easily lost or damaged. If they are not worn regularly, the teeth will shift and it will no longer fit. If for any reason the space maintainer is lost, damaged, or doesn't fit comfortably; please make an appointment with Dr. Pierson for adjustment or replacement.

Consequences of not performing treatment

This treatment provides the best chance of preserving space for the permanent teeth to erupt in proper alignment. Delaying or neglecting treatment could result in a loss of arch length and necessitate orthodontic treatment in the future.

Every reasonable effort will be made to ensure that the space maintainers will be done properly, although it is not possible to guarantee perfect results. Some space maintainers, especially removable space maintainers, fail even after our best effort due to lack of patient compliance. By signing the consent form, you acknowledge that you have received adequate information about the proposed treatment, that you understand this information and that all of your questions have been answered fully.