Preventative orthodontics focuses on the elimination of factors, which if left uncorrected, would result in a worsening of the malocclusion. One example would be space maintenance due to premature loss of deciduous teeth, most commonly the canines and molars. Maintaining space is primarily indicated when permanent tooth eruption will not occur for another six months or more
Depending on the clinical situation, several techniques can be used to maintain space. Early exfoliation of canines or the deciduous molars might be an indication of ectopic eruption patterns or severe crowding and should be carefully evaluated along with the space maintenance. Another example of preventative orthodontics would be habit cessation due to a finger habit or tongue thrust.
