Space & Growth Management

When a baby tooth is lost too early or the jaw is not developing properly, permanent teeth may erupt in the wrong position, become impacted, or create crowding. By addressing these issues early, we can:

• Prevent or reduce future tooth misalignment
• Avoid the need for tooth extractions later on
• Reduce the length and complexity of Phase II orthodontic treatment
• Improve facial balance and symmetry
• Encourage healthier oral function (chewing, speaking, breathing)

This treatment is especially beneficial when combined with developmental guidance and monitoring, which allows us to track changes over time and intervene at the right moment.

Our experienced team uses several orthodontic appliances to assist in managing space and jaw development. Each is customized to meet the child’s specific dental and skeletal needs.

Space Maintainers

These devices are used when a baby tooth is lost early. They hold the space open until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt, preventing neighboring teeth from shifting.

• Fixed or removable options depending on the case
• Helps prevent the need for future extractions or braces

Learn more about how space maintainers work and whether your child might need one.

Palatal Expanders

Used to widen the upper jaw, palatal expanders help create space for crowded teeth and correct crossbites. They are most effective when a child’s jaw is still developing.

• Non-invasive, gradual adjustment
• Can prevent the need for tooth extractions or jaw surgery later
• Supports balanced facial development

Visit our Crossbite Correction Appliances page to learn more about how expanders assist in bite correction.

Lower Lingual Holding Arch

This appliance is used to maintain space in the lower dental arch when baby molars are lost early. It ensures proper alignment and spacing for incoming permanent teeth.

• Often used alongside upper jaw expanders
• Prevents crowding in the lower jaw
• Keeps molars in their correct position during development

Distalizers or Headgear

Distalizers and orthodontic headgear are used to shift molars backward and encourage forward growth of the upper jaw. These appliances help address underbites, overjets, or severe crowding.

• Used in cases of skeletal imbalance
• Helps reduce the severity of bite issues
• May prevent the need for surgery in the future

For children with more complex bite problems, we may also recommend functional appliances or early habit appliances if oral habits are impacting jaw growth.

We recommend scheduling a screening by age 7, as advised by the American Association of Orthodontists. Early evaluation lets us determine whether your child may benefit from space and growth management, or whether observation is sufficient for now.

If immediate intervention isn’t needed, your child may enter the observation phase, where we monitor growth until treatment is necessary. This approach ensures that we begin care at the most effective and least invasive time.

Still unsure? Visit our Early Alignment Checkups page to understand what we look for during your child’s first orthodontic visit.