Abstract
Space maintenance should form an integral part of paediatric dentistry and interceptive orthodontics. It has two main aims: the maintenance of space for a future prosthesis, and the limitation of localized crowding. There are many varieties of space maintainer, broadly divided into two groups; fixed or removable. The design and use depend upon the number, size and position of the teeth missing, the teeth present in the mouth and the dental developmental stage the child has reached. Careful patient selection, timing of treatment and regular review is necessary to maximize the benefits. Clinical cases are presented illustrating the use of various space maintainers.