Space maintainers are common dental pieces that are placed where teeth once were. The empty space created by dislodgement or extraction can put the oral cavity at risk, which is why the role that space maintainers play is so large. Orthodontists and many other dental professionals recommend space maintainers to set the child up for the future, ensuring optimal oral health. Keep reading to learn more.
Outlined below are a few frequently asked questions and answers about space maintainers. It may be helpful for parents to review this information.
Space maintainers are placed to keep gaps between teeth open so that adjacent teeth do not shift and cover the gap, preventing the adult tooth from erupting.
No. Space maintainers are not permanent. They are typically only worn for a couple of years.
Space maintainers are typically made of metal materials. In some cases, acrylic can be made to create a space maintainer; however, this is much rarer. Metal is a good option because it is thick, durable, and long-lasting, meaning it can weather whatever the oral cavity goes through until the adult tooth erupts.
Space maintainers are recommended when children prematurely lose their baby teeth. This may be a result of injury or infection, both of which may result in dislodgement or extraction. When the baby teeth are lost too early, the empty space can lead to a shift and the gap can close, which will be a problem later on when the adult tooth grows in.
It is recommended to brush regularly around space maintainers as food can get stuck in or around them. Additionally, it is advised to avoid chewing sticky, hard, or tough foods on the side of the mouth that has a space maintainer. Foods that are not soft in substance can easily damage space maintainers, requiring a replacement to be performed. Lastly, rinsing with salt water or a gentle mouthwash can help to keep food debris from getting left behind.
There is not a set timespan that space maintainers are worn for. Instead, it varies per child depending on how young they are then whey prematurely lose their teeth. In general, space maintainers are worn for a couple of years, until the adult teeth are about to erupt.
Parents that are thinking about space maintainers for their children should consult with an orthodontist or dental professional to get started. A quick evaluation can be done of the child's mouth to determine if and when space maintainers are necessary. Additionally, questions and answers can be addressed, which will be helpful for parents that are curious. To learn more or to get scheduled, reach out today.
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