When a child loses a baby tooth earlier than expected, whether due to decay, injury, or extraction, it may seem like a minor hiccup in their dental journey. But baby teeth play an important role in guiding permanent teeth into place. Without the structure and stability that these primary teeth provide, adult teeth can shift or erupt improperly.
That’s where space maintainers come in. At Mount Airy Family Dentistry, Dr. Laura Mercer offers gentle, patient-focused solutions like space maintainers to protect your child’s developing smile and ensure lifelong oral health.
Although they’re temporary, baby teeth are essential to your child’s long-term dental health. Each tooth holds a specific place in the mouth and helps guide permanent teeth as they grow in.
Losing a baby tooth too early can set off a chain reaction that affects everything from chewing and speech to alignment and self-confidence later on. Here’s what can happen when a baby tooth goes missing too soon:
By using a space maintainer, Dr. Mercer helps keep that space open and ready for the adult tooth when it’s time to come in naturally.
A space maintainer is a small, custom dental device that holds the gap where a baby tooth has been lost. It’s designed to prevent surrounding teeth from shifting into that spot. At Mount Airy Family Dentistry, we offer both fixed and removable space maintainers based on your child’s age and needs. Types of space maintainers include:
We make sure the device fits comfortably and is easy to care for. And because we know that dental visits can be intimidating for little ones, our kid-friendly environment helps put them at ease. With TVs, blankets, headphones, and a warm, welcoming team that treats every child like one of our own.
Not every lost baby tooth needs intervention, but early loss of a back molar or multiple teeth might call for a space maintainer. Dr. Mercer carefully evaluates your child’s growth stage, tooth position, and eruption timeline before recommending treatment. Your child may be a good candidate if:
Timely care is key. That's why our same-day emergency appointments are available when the unexpected happens, so you’re never left worrying about what to do next.
As a hometown provider, Dr. Mercer takes the time to understand each child’s unique needs. Not just their dental history, but their personality, preferences, and what makes them feel comfortable.
Whether your child needs a space maintainer or a routine check-up, we offer all-encompassing care under one roof for kids of all ages. Our family-oriented approach includes:
With Dr. Mercer’s focus on building lasting relationships, you can rest easy knowing your child’s smile is in capable, compassionate hands.
Concerned about early tooth loss or wondering if a space maintainer might be right for your child? Give Mount Airy Family Dentistry a call at (336) 429-5800 to schedule a friendly, no-pressure consultation. Conveniently located in Mount Airy, we’re here to protect your child’s smile every step of the way. With care that feels just like home.
