Band and Loop Space Maintainer Indications, Procedure, Removal, Cost, Pros, Cons

Dental health is of paramount importance, especially in the early years of life. Band and Loop Space Maintainers are orthodontic appliances designed to ensure that children maintain proper spacing between their teeth following the loss of a primary tooth. This not only aids in the natural eruption of permanent teeth but also prevents potential complications that may arise due to the shifting of adjacent teeth.

What are Space Maintainers?

Space maintainers are dental devices used primarily in pediatric dentistry. They serve the crucial role of preserving the space left by a prematurely lost primary tooth, ensuring that the adjacent teeth do not encroach upon the vacated area.

Space maintainers are necessary because the premature loss of a primary tooth can lead to a host of issues, including misalignment of permanent teeth, crowding, and bite problems. By using Band and Loop Space Maintainers, dentists can help maintain the natural order of dental development.

Indications 

Premature Tooth Loss

The primary indication for using Band and Loop Space Maintainers is the premature loss of a baby tooth. This often occurs due to dental decay, trauma, or other dental issues. In such cases, space maintainers step in to prevent the adjacent teeth from drifting into the gap left by the missing tooth.

Space Maintenance

Space maintainers are also used proactively in cases where a child has congenitally missing teeth. These devices ensure that the available space is preserved for future tooth eruption, avoiding complications in the child's dental development.

Procedure

The process begins with a thorough dental examination and consultation. The dentist evaluates the child's dental condition, identifies the need for a space maintainer, and discusses the procedure with the child and their parents.

Band Placement

The first step in the actual procedure is placing a metal band around the tooth adjacent to the gap. This band serves as an anchor for the space maintainer.

Loop Attachment

Following the band placement, a loop is attached to the band, extending into the empty space. This loop prevents the neighboring teeth from shifting and maintains the space for the emerging permanent tooth.

Adjustment and Monitoring

Regular check-ups are essential to ensure the space maintainer is functioning correctly. Adjustments may be made to accommodate the child's growth and changing dental needs.

Removal

The removal of a Band and Loop Space Maintainer typically occurs once the permanent tooth is ready to erupt naturally. The dentist will carefully evaluate the situation before deciding on removal.

The removal process is a simple and painless procedure performed by a dentist. The band is gently removed, and the space maintainer is taken out, allowing the permanent tooth to take its place.

Costs 

The cost of band and loop space maintainers can vary depending on the provider and location. For example, Denovo Dental's Intro Chairside Space Maintainer Band Kit is on sale for $545. J&J Ortho Preformed Space Maintainer Band & Loop (4/pk) is available on Amazon for $37. 

Many dental insurance plans cover the cost of space maintainers, especially when they are deemed medically necessary. It's essential to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage.

Pros

Prevents dental complications

Preserves space for permanent teeth

Non-invasive and painless procedure

Cons 

Requires regular monitoring

Possibility of discomfort during adjustment