Space Maintainers for Lost Milk Teeth
Space Maintainers for Lost Milk Teeth
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Space Maintainers for Lost Milk Teeth
Space maintainers for lost milk teeth are orthodontic devices designed to hold the space for permanent teeth when a baby tooth is prematurely lost. If a baby tooth is lost too early due to decay, there is a risk that the adjacent teeth will shift into the empty space. This can block the permanent tooth from erupting in its proper position, leading to alignment problems that may require more extensive orthodontic treatment later. These appliances are custom-made and can be made of metal or acrylic, designed to fit comfortably in your child’s mouth.
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Why choose space maintainers?
Choosing to utilize space maintainers can play a critical role in the future of child’s oral health. Here are a few reasons why they might be necessary:
- Prevent Crowding and Misalignment: By holding space for the permanent teeth, space maintainers helps in preventing crowding and misalignment that can occur due to shifted teeth.
- Lower Future Orthodontic Costs: Effective early intervention can reduce the need for more complex orthodontic treatments in the future, potentially lowering treatment costs and time.
- Promote Proper Jaw Development: Maintaining the space for permanent teeth helps ensure that the jaw develops correctly, supporting overall oral health.
Types of space maintainers for lost milk teeth
1. Fixed Space Maintainers: These are cemented to the adjacent teeth and are used until the permanent tooth starts to erupt. They are commonly used and are ideal for younger children who might not reliably keep track of a removable device.
2. Removable Space Maintainers: These are similar to orthodontic appliances and can be removed for cleaning. They are generally recommended for older children who can manage the responsibility of caring for a removable device.
What is the process of getting space maintainers for lost milk teeth?
The process of getting space maintainers involves a few key steps:
- Initial Consultation: Our pediatric dentist in Best Smiles Advanced Dental Clinic conduct a thorough examination of your child’s mouth, including digital X-rays to assess the teeth and underlying bone structure. This helps determine if an appliance needed and the type that would be most effective.
- Impression Taking: If a space maintainer is recommended, an impression of your child’s mouth will be taken to create a custom-fitted device.
- Fitting the Space Maintainer: Once the space maintainer is ready, your child will have another appointment for fitting. Our pediatric dentist will ensure that it fits perfectly and comfortably.
- Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up visits are essential to monitor the effectiveness of the space maintainer and make any necessary adjustments. These visits also allow our dentist to check on the progress of the emerging permanent teeth.
Caring for Space Maintainers
Proper care of space maintainers is crucial for their effectiveness. Here are some care tips we provide for caring space maintainers:
- Oral Hygiene: Teach your child to brush around the space maintainer thoroughly to prevent plaque buildup, which can lead to gum disease and other dental issues.
- Avoid Certain Foods: Sticky and hard foods can damage space maintainers. We provide a list of foods to avoid to ensure the longevity of the device.
- Regular Dental Visits: Routine check-ups allow our team to clean areas that are hard for your child to reach and to inspect the space maintainer for any necessary adjustments.
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