If you’re concerned about your child losing a baby tooth prematurely and how it could affect their dental development, ask your orthodontist about space maintainers. These devices play a key role in preserving space for permanent teeth and preventing potential dental issues. Learn more about what a space maintainer is and how it can help ensure that your child’s permanent teeth grow in properly and prevent future alignment issues.
What Are Space Maintainers?
Space maintainers are orthodontic devices designed to hold space in a child’s mouth when a baby tooth is lost prematurely. Whether the tooth is knocked out or lost due to an untreated cavity, a pediatric dental spacer helps ensure that the permanent tooth has enough space to grow in properly. Without it, surrounding teeth could shift into the empty space, potentially causing crowding or alignment issues in the future.
There are two main types of space maintainers: fixed and removable. Each type serves a specific purpose based on the child’s age and ability to care for the appliance.
Fixed Space Maintainers
Fixed space maintainers are the most common type of dental spacer and are typically used for younger children. As the name suggests, they cannot be removed except by a trained orthodontist. These dental spacers are ideal for kids who may not yet have the maturity to handle a removable appliance. The fixed design ensures that the space stays open, allowing the adult tooth to come in as it should.
Removable Space Maintainers
Removable space maintainers are best suited for older children who are more likely to follow instructions and take proper care of the appliance. The spacer can be removed for cleaning and is less permanent, offering flexibility for your child. While removable space maintainers work just like fixed dental spacers to help prevent the teeth from shifting, they depend on the patient remembering to wear them to be effective.
How Do You Care for Space Maintainers?
Caring for a space maintainer is a lot like caring for braces or any other orthodontic appliance. You’ll want to help your child avoid sticky or hard foods, such as gum or taffy, which could damage the appliance. It’s also essential to maintain good oral hygiene. Regular brushing and flossing are a must to keep both the space maintainer and your child’s teeth healthy.
How Long Is a Space Maintainer Needed?
A space maintainer will stay in place until the adult tooth begins to emerge, which usually takes several months to a year. However, the length of time your child will need to use a dental spacer depends on their dental development. Once the permanent tooth has grown enough to fill in the space, the dental spacer can be removed.
Regular check-ups with the orthodontist will ensure the spacer is working as intended. If the orthodontist sees any issues, they will make adjustments to ensure optimal results.
Visit Peterson Family Orthodontics To See If You Need a Space Maintainer
If your child needs a space maintainer or you still have questions about what a space maintainer will do for you, Peterson Family Orthodontics is here to help. We specialize in providing the best care for your family’s smile. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your child’s orthodontic options!