When a tooth is not fully erupted, making a custom band for it is impossible and selecting a preformed band that is going to fit is almost as difficult. However, it still may be possible to place a space maintainer if a sufficient amount of tooth structure is exposed to place an all-bonded unilateral spacer like the one shown here. This appliance is bonded to both the buccal and lingual surface of the partially erupted molar. When the other abutment tooth has a well-defined occlusal surface, a simple wire rest will suffice. Otherwise, bonding with a direct-bond pad (shown) is recommended.