Do kids really need space maintainers?

As a parent, you always want what's best for your child's health, especially when it comes to their dental care. One question that often comes up in pediatric dentistry is whether or not children really need space maintainers. This is a topic that Dr. Matthew Gustafsson of Truckee Pediatric Dentistry is particularly familiar with.

Understanding Space Maintainers

Space maintainers are devices custom-made by a dentist or orthodontist. They can be removable or cemented in a child's mouth. Their purpose? To keep the space open to allow the permanent tooth to erupt and come into place. Baby teeth are important to the development of the teeth, jaw bones and muscles and help to guide permanent teeth into position when the baby teeth are lost too early. 

• When a child loses a baby tooth early through decay or injury, the other teeth can shift and begin to fill the vacant space. 
• If this happens, there might not be enough room for the permanent tooth to come in. 
• Dental space maintainers can prevent this from happening. 

Types of Space Maintainers

There are several types of space maintainers, including removable and fixed ones. The best choice for your child will depend on a number of factors, including their age, the location of the missing tooth, and their overall oral health.

• Removable space maintainers are a type of orthodontic appliance and are usually made of acrylic. 
• Fixed space maintainers come in many designs. 

The Importance of Space Maintainers

While space maintainers may not be necessary for every child, they can play a critical role in maintaining the proper alignment of both baby and permanent teeth. They can also help prevent future dental problems, making them an investment in your child's oral health.

• Space maintainers can help ensure that there is enough space for permanent teeth to erupt properly. 
• They can also prevent the need for orthodontic treatment later in life, or at least minimize the length of future orthodontic treatment. 

When Space Maintainers Are Not Necessary

It's important to note that not every child who loses a baby tooth early will need a space maintainer. If the lost tooth was close to being naturally lost, a space maintainer may not be needed.

• If your child loses a tooth prematurely, it's crucial to consult with a pediatric dentist. 
• They can determine whether or not a space maintainer is necessary. 

Caring for Space Maintainers

If your child does need a space maintainer, it's important to ensure that they take care of it properly. This includes regular brushing, avoiding sticky foods, and not pushing or pulling on the space maintainer with the tongue or fingers.

Regular dental check-ups are also important, as they allow the dentist to monitor the progress of the incoming permanent tooth. 

Dental Care in Truckee, CA

At Truckee Pediatric Dentistry, we are committed to providing the highest quality of dental care for your child. If your child has lost a tooth prematurely and you're concerned about the potential need for a space maintainer, don't hesitate to reach out to us. Call us today at (530) 550-9311 to request an appointment with Dr. Matthew Gustafsson. We're here to help guide you and your child through this process and ensure the best possible outcome for their oral health.