Holding Space Open for Permanent Teeth

Excerpt from "Your Child's Teeth: Helpful Tips for Parents and Caregivers", by the American Dental Association:

Sometimes a primary tooth is lost before the permanent tooth beneath is ready to erupt. If a primary tooth is lost too early because of cavities or injuries, nearby teeth can tip or shift into the vacant space. When the permanent tooth is ready to emerge into the space, there may not be enough room for it. The new tooth may be unable to erupt – or may emerge in an abnormal position. If a child loses a tooth prematurely, the dentist may recommend a space maintainer, a plastic or metal appliance that holds open the space left by the missing tooth. The dentist will remove this device once the permanent tooth begins to erupt.