Even though they’re only with us for a short time, our baby teeth, also referred to as our primary teeth, are important when it comes to developing a healthy smile in adulthood. Essentially, they carve out and hold the space until our mature teeth are ready to erupt.
But things can happen from time to time that we may not expect, including losing our baby teeth earlier than normal. If this should occur, your teeth may begin to shift and lead to crooked and fractured adult teeth, which, in turn, can cause jaw strain and pain when chewing.
One solution to this issue is acquiring space maintainers in Westfield. This prosthetic can help stop your teeth from moving and contribute to the emergence of a healthy, mature smile. For more information about this, contact our local dental clinic today!
A Form of Pediatric Dentistry
The use of space maintainers is a form of pediatric dental treatment. In other words, this strategy is typically recommended to kids who are missing multiple baby teeth, whether it’s due to trauma, infection, or irregular development.
But what is a space maintainer, you say? Great question.
As the name clearly illustrates, this device is used to maintain room in your mouth so that your adult teeth can come in without problems. It is a preventative measure.
A pediatric dentist near you may suggest using space maintainers depending on your child’s current oral health situation and the extent of care that they need to restore their smile and preserve it for future growth.
Like other dental devices, space maintainers can be fabricated from several materials, though acrylic and metal are the most frequently used. In appearance, they resemble a retainer and sometimes incorporate elastic bands or springs. They’re customized to fit your child’s unique oral dimensions. An artificial tooth may also be included in the device if a patient is missing a tooth at the front of their mouth.
Things to Know
If you’re unsure as to whether your children require a space maintainer, we’re here to help you. Outlined below are some of the main things for you to know prior to moving ahead and acquiring one for your child. And, at the end of the day, if you still have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to seek out Westfield pediatric dentistry.
Do space maintainers hurt?
No. Unlike braces, this device isn’t designed to manipulate your teeth. They’re simply there to hold them in position. Your child shouldn’t experience any pain or sensitivity and will get used to having it in their mouth in no time.
How long do you wear a maintainer?
Although everyone’s dental situation is different, as a generalized rule, space maintainers usually stay in a patient’s mouth until all their adult teeth emerge; this phenomenon will push the device out. But they can be removed by a dentist too.
How do you take care of a space maintainer?
Looking after this device is important; for example, if you allow bacteria and plaque to build up around it, this can cause even more setbacks regarding the development of a healthy smile. Additional treatments may be needed as well, which costs both time and money.
That said, some tips to help your child take proper care of their device are as follows:
- Avoid chewing gum and sticky candies, sweets, and fruit snacks.
- Don’t push on the device with your tongue or fingers; just leave it be.
- Brush at least twice a day.
- Floss at least once every day.
- Attend routine dental checkups and cleanings.
Book a Consultation with Our Friendly Staff Members Today!
There’s no need for you to Google “pediatric dentistry near me” any longer; here at Bumble Kids Pediatric Dentistry, our team of skilled dentists, hygienists, and administrative personnel are all eagerly awaiting your visit. You and your family are important to us; after all, we wouldn’t be here without our patients. We’ll do all we can to ensure that your child’s smile is beautiful and functional.
Are you ready to get started? Come into our dental practice, call, or head to our website to set up an appointment. We cannot wait to work with you and your family very soon!