Space Maintainer Treatment Steps for Patients with Braces

The team at Cooney & Tyner orthodontics want you to know what to expect while you’re receiving treatment for your smile. Get to know the six steps associated with space maintainer treatment for patients with braces:

Step 1: 3D digital imaging of your teeth.

Step 2: Placement of Separators (Spacers) in between the back teeth approximately one week prior to placing the appliances to maintain space for them to fit comfortably.

Step 3: Removal of Separators and placement of the Space Maintainers (Upper: Nance, Lower: Lingual Arch). This is a time where we will see you back for periodic checks to evaluate the eruption of the teeth. This time frame is dependent on each patient’s biology and how fast or slow the teeth are growing in.

Step 4: The 3D Digital Imaging is updated.

Step 5: The Space Maintainers are removed and the top braces are placed. The bottom braces are generally placed a few months after the top. Many times rubber bands will be necessary to settle the bite into a correct and healthy position. You will then be seen every few months for braces adjustments until the desired tooth and bite position is acquired.

Step 6: Removal of all brackets and placement of upper and lower clear plastic retainers. Retainers will be worn full time for a few days, then 12hrs a day for a year, then night time for a lifetime to stabilize and maintain your hard work.

Have questions about the best orthodontic treatment for you? Contact our experienced orthodontic team via phone / email or schedule a complimentary consultation today!