Space Maintainers
When is a Space Maintainer Needed?
When a child loses a baby tooth prematurely and the permanent tooth has not come in yet, a space can be left, which can allow neighboring teeth to drift into that space. Space maintainers prevent this from happening, ensuring that your child’s smile looks the best it can!
Young children and adolescents have the tendency to lose removable space maintainers, so we recommend placing fixed space maintainers. In the event that a child is missing more than one tooth, a bilateral space maintainer can be used.
How are Space Maintainers Placed?
At Sprout Kids Dentistry, we ensure that space maintainers are custom made so that they comfortably fit into the mouth. If a unilateral space maintainer is needed, there’s a good chance we can create one the same day as the appointment. If a bilateral space maintainer is needed, then impressions of your child’s teeth will need to be taken and sent to a dental lab where the space maintainer will be custom made.
When you start to notice your child’s permanent tooth begins erupting, you should bring him or her into the office so that we can determine if the space maintainer is ready to be removed.
After a space maintainer is placed, your child may experience some gum irritation, which is completely normal. It is also important that your child maintain good oral hygiene habits to help ensure healthy teeth.
For more information regarding space maintainers in the Quincy, MA area, contact our office today!
Dr. Michelle Anderson is a pediatric dentist board certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.
