Table 2:

Indications and contraindications of space maintainer

Indications  When the succedaneous tooth is not ready for eruption  When there is at least one mm of bone coverage over the succedaneous tooth  After space analysis, when there is a possibility of space inadequacy for the permanent successor due to unbalanced forces from the adjacent teeth.  If the space after the premature loss of primary teeth shows signs of closing  If the use of a space maintainer makes the future orthodontic treatment simple Contraindications  When there is no bone coverage overlying the erupting permanent successor  When the root of the succedaneous tooth has two-thirds completion  When the succedaneous tooth is absent, and the space needs closure.  When the space created is less than the mesiodistal diameter of the crown of the permanent successor  Patients with widely spaced dentition  Patients whose succeeding teeth are expected to erupt within the next 6 months  Patients who have cuspal interferences or locked opposing first molars in a stable relationship  Patients who are expected to have future orthodontic procedures for any other indications are not recommended to place space maintaining appliances