What Are Space Maintainers?
June 14, 2019
Baby teeth are important for many reasons. They provide your children with the ability to chew and speak properly, which is essential for healthy bodies and self-esteem. They also hold the space for permanent teeth, so that when they erupt, there is room for them to grow in. When baby teeth are lost prematurely, it can result in crowded, crooked teeth. In some cases, the permanent teeth may be blocked from erupting by baby teeth that have shifted out of position. To prevent this from happening to her patients, our pediatric dentist Dr. Carolyn B. Crowell recommends space maintainers in Avon, OH.
The Two Types of Space Maintainers
1. Fixed space maintainers are designed to prevent two teeth from moving closer together. Space maintainers often consist of a band that encircles the teeth, maintaining the distance between them. Another popular method consists of fitting one of the teeth with a stainless steel crown and using a loop on the adjacent tooth to prevent the two from drifting together. These fixed space maintainers will hold the empty space until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt.
2. Removable space maintainers often incorporate a false tooth to hold the space, similar to a removable partial denture. While these space maintainers are effective, especially when the lost tooth is in a visible area, they can be removed by your child. This makes them more vulnerable to loss or breakage.
The Process of Getting Space Maintainers
Our pediatric dentist will make an impression of your child’s mouth in order to customize an ideal space maintainer. The appliance should be worn until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt. Dr. Crowell will be able to determine this information with an x-ray.
If your child needs space maintainers in Avon, OH, schedule a consultation with Carolyn B. Crowell today. Our pediatric dentist offers high-quality care in a friendly, relaxed environment.