When a primary tooth is lost prematurely, the surrounding teeth may shift and close the gap. This can lead to misalignment and crowding of permanent teeth, affecting your child’s bite and overall oral health. Space maintainers are orthodontic appliances designed to preserve the space for missing primary teeth, ensuring that permanent teeth erupt in their proper positions.
Why Are Space Maintainers Important?
- Prevent Crowding and Misalignment: Space maintainers help prevent permanent teeth from shifting and crowding, which can lead to bite problems and orthodontic treatment.
- Maintain Proper Jaw Growth: By preserving space, space maintainers help ensure that your child’s jaw develops normally, promoting a healthy bite.
- Improve Aesthetics: A properly aligned smile can boost your child’s self-esteem and confidence.
Types of Space Maintainers
There are two main types of space maintainers:
- Fixed Space Maintainers: These are cemented to the adjacent teeth and remain in place until the permanent tooth erupts.
- Removable Space Maintainers: These are similar to orthodontic retainers and can be removed for cleaning and care.
What to Expect During the Appointment
Our pediatric dentists will carefully assess your child’s needs to determine the most appropriate type of space maintainer. The procedure is typically quick and painless.
- Examination: Your child’s teeth and jaw will be examined to assess the need for a space maintainer.
- Impression: An impression of your child’s teeth will be taken to create the space maintainer.
- Placement: The space maintainer will be fitted and cemented or adjusted, depending on the type.
Associated Services for Children's Dentistry
Sealants & Fluoride Treatment
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Space Maintainers
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Why Choose Gardenbrooke Dental for Space Maintainers?
- Experienced Pediatric Dentists: Our team of skilled pediatric dentists specializes in providing gentle and compassionate care for children.
- Kid-Friendly Atmosphere: We create a welcoming and comfortable environment to make dental visits a positive experience.
- Comprehensive Oral Health Care: We offer a wide range of dental services to address all your child’s oral health needs.
- State-of-the-Art Technology: We use the latest dental technology to provide the highest quality care.
- Commitment to Community: As a local dental practice in Northeast Brampton, we’re dedicated to serving our community and providing exceptional dental care.
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Frequently Asked Questions
A space maintainer is typically recommended when a primary tooth is lost prematurely before the permanent tooth is ready to erupt. This helps prevent the surrounding teeth from shifting and closing the gap, which can lead to crowding and misalignment.
There are two main types of space maintainers:
- Fixed Space Maintainers: These are cemented to the adjacent teeth and remain in place until the permanent tooth erupts.
- Removable Space Maintainers: These are similar to orthodontic retainers and can be removed for cleaning and care.
The duration of space maintainer use depends on when the permanent tooth is expected to erupt. Your dentist will monitor your child’s progress and determine when the space maintainer can be removed.
If your child has a removable space maintainer, they may need to avoid certain foods, such as sticky or hard candies, to prevent damage. For fixed space maintainers, your dentist will provide specific care instructions.
Regular dental checkups are essential to monitor the progress of your child’s space maintainer and ensure proper oral hygiene. Your dentist will recommend the appropriate frequency of visits.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
If your child has lost a primary tooth prematurely, don’t wait. Contact Gardenbrooke Dental to schedule a consultation for space maintainers and ensure your child’s smile remains healthy and beautiful.
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