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Space Maintainers in Balham

Our Balham clinic specialises in Space Maintainers using state-of-the-art 3D imaging and computer-guided surgery unavailable at general practices. We blend expert knowledge with meticulous treatment planning to ensure excellent results. Our certified team delivers exceptional Space Maintainers outcomes through careful planning for Balham patients.

Dr. Ope Sodeinde is a GDC registered specialist with MClinDent Prosthodontics (Distinction) and over 20 years of practical experience in Space Maintainers. Our treatments comply with BDA guidelines and national dental standards, so Balham patients can rely on our commitment to safe effective care.

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Space Maintainers treatments for Balham residents
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What are Space Maintainers?

Space maintainers are dental appliances designed to preserve the gap created by a prematurely lost primary (baby) tooth, ensuring that permanent teeth have sufficient space to erupt properly. These devices, which can be either fixed (made of metal bands and wires) or removable (made of acrylic), prevent adjacent teeth from drifting into the empty space, which could otherwise lead to crowding, misalignment, and potential orthodontic complications. Typically used in children between ages 5 and 14, space maintainers are custom-fitted to each patient's mouth and may remain in place until the permanent tooth is ready to emerge, helping to maintain proper dental development and potentially reducing the need for extensive orthodontic treatment later.
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Why Choose Us

Choose London Dental Specialists for Space Maintainers in Balham and benefit from our convenient payment options and insurance acceptance. Our multi-specialist team includes various specialists working under one roof. We offer evening appointments to fit your schedule. Our successful Space Maintainers patients share their experiences in this video:

Contact Us & Lets Get Started

Need answers fast? Schedule a thorough evaluation with the trusted team at London Dental Specialists. We offer priority bookings—including weekend times.

You'll receive a tailored assessment, straightforward treatment plan, and transparent costs—no surprises. We accept major UK insurance plans and offer easy monthly options.

You’ll be in expert hands—Dr. Sodeinde is one of London’s leading specialists in complex restorative and cosmetic cases. From diagnostics to aftercare, our team uses the latest dental technology and clinical protocols to deliver safe, consistent results.

Speak to our coordinators on +44 7700 100779 or use the form below to book today. Have questions? We’re happy to help. Send us your details and let’s talk.

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Our Process For Space Maintainers

At London Dental Specialists, our Space Maintainers service is designed to preserve the necessary space for permanent teeth following premature loss of primary teeth, preventing misalignment and ensuring proper dental development. The process begins with a comprehensive consultation and assessment to evaluate your child's specific needs. Based on this evaluation, we develop a customised treatment plan tailored to their oral health. The next step involves the precise placement of the space maintainer, a device that holds the space open until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt. Post-treatment care includes regular monitoring and guidance to ensure the maintainer functions effectively and to address any concerns promptly.

Recovery Timeline

Step 1

Consultation & Assessment



  • Clinical Examination of oral health

  • Radiographic Analysis with X-rays

  • Medical History Review for allergies

  • Oral Hygiene Assessment for tailored guidance

Step 2

Space Maintainers Custom Treatment Plan



  • Selection of appropriate space maintainer type

  • Material consideration for comfort and durability

  • Custom design for precise fit

  • Oral hygiene guidance and instructions

  • Follow-up appointment schedule

Step 3

Space Maintainers Treatment Procedures



  • Preparation of the treatment area

  • Placement of the space maintainer

  • Adjustment and comfort check

  • Oral hygiene instruction

  • Follow-up schedule

Step 4

Post Space Maintainers Treatment Care



  • Dietary recommendations to protect the appliance

  • Specialised oral hygiene practices

  • Regular follow-up appointments every 3-6 months

  • Monitoring for signs of discomfort or damage

  • Guidance on proper patient cooperation

Step 1

Space Maintainers Consultation and Assessment at London Dental Specialists



Space maintainers are custom-made dental appliances designed to preserve the gap left by prematurely lost baby teeth. At London Dental Specialists, our consultation and assessment process for space maintainers is thorough and tailored to each child's unique dental needs.



During your initial visit, our experienced paediatric dental team will:




  • Conduct a comprehensive oral examination to assess your child's overall dental health

  • Take detailed X-rays to evaluate the development of underlying permanent teeth

  • Discuss your child's dental history and any concerns you may have

  • Determine if a space maintainer is necessary based on the examination findings



Our specialists will carefully consider factors such as:




  • Your child's age (typically between 5 and 14 years old)

  • The location of the missing tooth

  • The expected eruption time of the permanent tooth

  • The condition of surrounding teeth and gums



If a space maintainer is recommended, we will explain the different types available:
























Type Description Best For
Fixed Unilateral Attached to one side of the mouth Single tooth loss
Fixed Bilateral Spans both sides of the dental arch Multiple tooth loss
Removable Can be taken out for cleaning Older, responsible children


Our team will guide you through the entire process, addressing any questions or concerns you may have about space maintainers and their role in your child's dental development.



Following the consultation, we will create a personalised treatment plan that outlines the recommended space maintainer type, estimated treatment duration, and aftercare instructions. We'll also discuss the cost and any available payment options to ensure you're fully informed before proceeding with treatment.



At London Dental Specialists, we use advanced 3D digital imaging technology to ensure precise measurements and optimal fit for your child's space maintainer. This technology allows us to create a comfortable and effective appliance that will maintain proper tooth alignment until the permanent teeth are ready to emerge.

Contact Us & Get Started Call Us +447700100779

Step 2

Custom Space Maintainer Treatment Plan at London Dental Specialists



After your initial consultation, our expert team at London Dental Specialists will create a bespoke treatment plan for your child's space maintainer. This plan is tailored to address your child's specific dental needs and ensure optimal tooth alignment as they grow.



Our custom treatment plan typically includes:




  • Detailed design of the space maintainer based on 3D digital imaging

  • Selection of materials (stainless steel or acrylic) for comfort and durability

  • Precise measurements to ensure a perfect fit

  • Timeline for placement and follow-up appointments

  • Care instructions for maintaining the space maintainer



We offer various types of space maintainers, each designed for specific situations:





























Type Description Ideal For
Unilateral Space Maintainer Wrapped around a tooth and connected to a metal loop Single tooth loss on one side of the mouth
Crown and Loop Space Maintainer A crown fitted on the tooth with a loop extending to hold space When adjacent tooth needs additional support
Distal Shoe Space Maintainer Extends slightly under the gum to guide erupting molar Loss of a first primary molar before the first permanent molar emerges
Lingual Space Maintainer A wire that connects to bands on the molars Multiple tooth loss in the lower jaw


Our treatment plan will outline the step-by-step process for fitting your child's space maintainer:




  1. 3D digital imaging of your child's teeth for precise measurements

  2. Placement of separators (spacers) between back teeth about a week before fitting

  3. Removal of separators and placement of the custom-made space maintainer

  4. Adjustment and comfort check to ensure proper fit



We'll also provide a comprehensive aftercare plan, including:




  • Oral hygiene instructions specific to the type of space maintainer

  • Dietary recommendations to protect the appliance

  • Schedule for regular check-ups and adjustments

  • Signs to watch for that may indicate a need for maintenance



At London Dental Specialists, we ensure that parents and children fully understand the treatment plan before proceeding. We encourage questions and provide detailed explanations to make the process as smooth and comfortable as possible for your child.



Our team will also discuss the expected duration of space maintainer use, which typically ranges from a few months to several years, depending on your child's dental development. We'll monitor progress closely and adjust the treatment plan as needed to ensure the best possible outcome for your child's dental health.

Contact Us & Get Started Call Us +447700100779

Step 3

Space Maintainers Treatment Procedures at London Dental Specialists



At London Dental Specialists, our space maintainer treatment procedures are designed to ensure optimal comfort and effectiveness for your child. Following the consultation and custom treatment plan, we proceed with the precise fitting of the space maintainer.



Our treatment procedures typically involve:




  1. Preparation: We may place separators between your child's back teeth about a week before fitting to create space for the appliance.

  2. Fitting: Using our advanced 3D digital imaging, we ensure the space maintainer fits perfectly in your child's mouth.

  3. Adjustment: We make any necessary adjustments to ensure the appliance is comfortable and functional.

  4. Education: We provide detailed instructions on care and maintenance of the space maintainer.



For fixed space maintainers, which are most common for younger children, the procedure involves:




  • Cleaning and preparing the adjacent teeth

  • Carefully fitting and cementing the appliance in place

  • Checking the bite and making final adjustments



For removable space maintainers, suitable for older, more responsible children, we:




  • Take precise impressions of your child's teeth

  • Create a custom-fitted removable appliance

  • Demonstrate proper insertion, removal, and cleaning techniques



Throughout the procedure, our experienced paediatric dental team ensures your child remains comfortable and relaxed. We use child-friendly language to explain each step, helping to alleviate any anxiety.



After fitting the space maintainer, we schedule follow-up appointments to monitor its effectiveness and make any necessary adjustments. These check-ups are crucial to ensure the appliance continues to function correctly as your child's mouth develops.



At London Dental Specialists, we prioritise your child's comfort and dental health. Our space maintainer procedures are designed to preserve proper tooth spacing, prevent orthodontic issues, and support healthy dental development.

Contact Us & Get Started Call Us +447700100779

Step 4

Post Space Maintainers Treatment Care at London Dental Specialists



Proper aftercare is essential for the success of your child's space maintainer treatment. At London Dental Specialists, we provide comprehensive guidance to ensure the appliance remains effective and your child's dental development stays on track following the fitting procedure.



Our post-treatment care programme includes:




  • Regular check-up appointments every 3-6 months to monitor the space maintainer's condition and your child's dental development

  • Professional cleaning to prevent plaque build-up around the appliance

  • Adjustments as needed to accommodate your child's growing mouth

  • Evaluation of permanent tooth eruption to determine when the space maintainer can be removed



For daily home care, we recommend:




  • Thorough brushing twice daily around the space maintainer

  • Gentle flossing with floss threaders for fixed appliances

  • Regular cleaning of removable space maintainers with a soft toothbrush

  • Avoiding sticky foods like toffee, chewing gum, and hard sweets that could damage the appliance



Parents should watch for these warning signs that may indicate a problem with the space maintainer:




  • Discomfort or pain around the appliance

  • Loosening of bands or cement

  • Irritation or sores on the gums, cheeks, or tongue

  • Difficulty chewing or speaking

  • Visible damage to any part of the space maintainer



If any of these issues occur, contact our clinic promptly for an assessment. Early intervention can prevent complications and ensure the space maintainer continues to function properly.



The duration of space maintainer use typically ranges from a few months to several years, depending on your child's age (usually between 5 and 14 years) and the development of their permanent teeth. Our specialists will monitor progress closely and determine the optimal time for removal.



At London Dental Specialists, we believe in empowering parents and children with knowledge about space maintainer care. Our team is always available to answer questions and provide support throughout the treatment process, ensuring the best possible outcome for your child's dental health and future smile.

Contact Us & Get Started Call Us +447700100779
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Get Directions to our Dental Clinic from Balham

Reach our award-winning practice from Balham using direct tube connections to 111 Regent's Park Road, NW1 8UR. The Central Line from Balham connects to the network via central London for simple access to Regent's Park. We provide complete Space Maintainers with qualified specialists only.

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Conditions We Treat With Space Maintainers

We use Space Maintainers to treat various dental conditions at our Balham practice, concentrating on conditions that respond well to this treatment. Our experienced team establishes which conditions are most suitable for Space Maintainers. We provide clear guidance about expected outcomes for your specific condition.


  • Premature Loss of Primary Teeth - Space maintainers preserve the gap when baby teeth are lost too early, ensuring permanent teeth have the proper space to erupt correctly.

  • Congenital Absence of Teeth - When children are born without certain teeth, space maintainers help manage the gaps until appropriate dental treatment can be provided.

  • Trauma-Related Tooth Loss - Following accidents or injuries that result in lost teeth, space maintainers prevent adjacent teeth from drifting into the empty space.

  • Extensive Dental Decay - When severe decay necessitates early extraction of primary teeth, space maintainers help maintain proper dental alignment.

  • Developmental Dental Issues - Space maintainers assist with managing spacing during treatment of various developmental dental conditions.

  • Impacted Teeth - When permanent teeth are unable to erupt normally, space maintainers preserve the proper position until orthodontic intervention.

  • Delayed Tooth Eruption - For children experiencing late eruption of permanent teeth, space maintainers prevent complications from prolonged gaps.

  • Multiple Missing Teeth - In cases where several teeth are missing, custom space maintainers help preserve overall dental arch integrity.

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Meet Our Top-Rated Therapeutic Team Focused on Space Maintainers in Balham

Our team brings exceptional expertise in paediatric dentistry, including specialised care with space maintainers for children who have lost primary teeth prematurely. Dr. Kia Papagalani, our Orthodontics Specialist, excels in evaluating when fixed or removable space maintainers are necessary to preserve proper alignment for emerging permanent teeth. Dr. Ope Sodeinde and Dr. Neha Patel complement our comprehensive approach with their periodontal and endodontic expertise, ensuring all aspects of your child's oral development are addressed. Florentina Ciuchea, our Dental Therapist, provides gentle preventive care and education, helping children maintain healthy smiles throughout their developmental stages. Together, we create a supportive environment where children receive the highest standard of dental care tailored to their unique needs.
Read More
dr ope sodeinde specialist in periodontics london

Dr Ope Sodeinde

Principal Dentist & Specialist in Periodontics

BDS MFDS RCS(Ed) MSc(Rest Dent) MClinDent(Perio) MPerioRCS(Ed)

GDC No: 104071

dr neha patel specialist endodontist london

Dr Neha Patel

Specialist in Endodontics

BDS MFDS RCS(Ed) FHEA MClinDent(Ed) MEndoRCS(Ed)

GDC No: 150517

dr kia papagalani specialist orthodontist london

Dr Kia Papagalani

Specialist in Orthodontics

DipDS Athens MS(Ortho) OSU

GDC No: 228487

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a space maintainer?


A space maintainer is a dental appliance designed to preserve the space left by a prematurely lost baby tooth. These custom-made devices prevent adjacent teeth from drifting into the empty space, ensuring proper alignment for permanent teeth when they erupt. At London Dental Specialists, our space maintainers are typically crafted from metal or acrylic materials and can be either fixed (cemented in place) or removable depending on your child's specific needs.



Why might my child need a space maintainer?


Your child might need a space maintainer if they've lost a baby tooth earlier than expected due to decay, trauma, or other dental issues. Without a space maintainer, the surrounding teeth can shift into the empty space, potentially causing alignment problems when permanent teeth attempt to emerge. This preventive measure helps avoid future orthodontic complications and maintains proper dental development, saving time and resources on extensive treatments later.



What types of space maintainers are available at London Dental Specialists?


At London Dental Specialists, we offer several types of space maintainers tailored to your child's specific needs:



  • Unilateral space maintainer: Wraps around a tooth with a metal loop to hold the space intact, used when a single tooth is missing on one side.

  • Crown and loop space maintainer: A stainless steel crown fitted over a tooth with an attached loop to preserve adjacent space.

  • Distal shoe space maintainer: Used when a baby molar is lost before the permanent first molar erupts, extending into the gum to guide the emerging tooth.

  • Lingual space maintainer: A bilateral device that connects to molars on both sides of the lower jaw, preserving space for multiple missing front teeth.



At what age are space maintainers typically needed?


Space maintainers are most commonly used for children between the ages of 5 and 14, which is a crucial period for dental development. The specific timing depends on your child's individual development and when they lose their baby teeth. Younger children might need to keep their space maintainers for a longer period if their permanent teeth are still several years away from erupting. Our specialists at London Dental Specialists will evaluate your child's specific needs to determine the appropriate timing.



How is a space maintainer fitted?


The process of fitting a space maintainer at London Dental Specialists involves three main steps:



  1. 3D digital imaging of your child's teeth to create a precise treatment plan

  2. Placement of separators (spacers) between the back teeth approximately one week before the appliance fitting to create sufficient space

  3. Removal of the separators and installation of the appropriate space maintainer (such as a Nance appliance for upper teeth or a Lingual Arch for lower teeth)



Are space maintainers uncomfortable for children?


Most children adapt to space maintainers within a few days. Initially, your child might experience mild discomfort or a feeling of pressure, but this typically subsides quickly. The appliances are custom-designed to fit comfortably in your child's mouth. If discomfort persists or if the device causes irritation to the gums or cheeks, please contact London Dental Specialists for an adjustment appointment.



How long will my child need to wear a space maintainer?


The duration for wearing a space maintainer varies depending on your child's dental development. Typically, the device remains in place until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt into the space, which could range from several months to a few years. With proper care and regular check-ups at London Dental Specialists, space maintainers can effectively serve their purpose until they're no longer needed, ensuring optimal dental development for your child.



How should my child care for their space maintainer?


Proper care of a space maintainer includes:



  • Maintaining excellent oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing

  • Avoiding sticky sweets, chewing gum, and hard foods that could damage the appliance

  • Not pushing or pulling on the space maintainer with fingers or tongue

  • Attending all scheduled check-up appointments at London Dental Specialists

  • For removable appliances, cleaning them as instructed and storing them safely when not in use



What happens if a space maintainer breaks or comes loose?


If your child's space maintainer becomes damaged, breaks, or feels loose, contact London Dental Specialists immediately for an appointment. Continuing to use a damaged space maintainer could cause discomfort or oral injuries. Never attempt to adjust or repair the device at home. Our specialists will assess the situation and either repair the existing appliance or create a replacement if necessary to ensure your child's dental development stays on track.

Need specific information about Space Maintainers in Balham? Don't hesitate to reach out to discuss your Space Maintainers questions. As your local Balham team, we know your concerns.

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Space Maintainers Aftercare Products and Methods








































































Product Brands What it Takes Care of Details
Child-Friendly Toothpaste Aquafresh Kids, Colgate Kids Gentle cleaning around space maintainers Fluoride toothpaste that's gentle enough for children with space maintainers.
Soft-Bristled Toothbrush Oral-B Kids, Colgate Kids Cleaning around space maintainers Soft bristles that clean effectively without damaging space maintainers.
Water Flosser Waterpik, Philips Sonicare Airfloss Cleaning around and under space maintainers Gentle water pressure to remove food particles from hard-to-reach areas.
Interdental Brushes TePe, Oral-B Targeted cleaning Small brushes to clean around space maintainer bands and wires.
Alcohol-Free Mouthwash Corsodyl, Colgate Gentle rinsing Helps reduce bacteria without irritating gums around space maintainers.
Orthodontic Wax Ortho Wax, DenTek Comfort protection Provides relief if space maintainer causes any irritation to cheeks or gums.
Travel Cleaning Kit Oral-B, Colgate On-the-go care Maintains space maintainer cleanliness during school or away from home.
Disclosing Tablets Boots, Plaque Disclosers Plaque identification Helps children see missed areas when brushing around space maintainers.
Fluoride Rinse Colgate FluoriGard, Oral-B Cavity prevention Extra protection for teeth adjacent to space maintainers.
Antimicrobial Mouth Spray Dentyl, Corsodyl Quick freshening Helps reduce bacteria between brushings for children with space maintainers.
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Get Started with Space Maintainers Treatments

Ready to take the next step with our  Space Maintainers Treatments?

We welcome your concerns about Space Maintainers treatment in Balham. We'll help you feel confident as we plan your path to better dental health together.

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