Did your child lose a tooth a little too early from a severe cavity or trauma? It could be time to investigate space maintainers! Space maintainers are orthodontic devices designed to help prevent the overcrowding or shifting of teeth until permanent replacements can grow in. By having your kids wear them now, you can better ensure that they won’t need extensive orthodontic treatments down the line. If you’re curious as to how space maintainers work and whether or not they’re suitable for your child, Laredo Orthodontics can help you decide.
HOW SPACE MAINTAINERS CAN HELP EARLY TOOTH LOSS
Baby teeth may seem like a temporary set of pearly whites that are inevitably going to fall out. However, they play a crucial role in a child’s development. Baby teeth help to guide the path for the adult teeth to grow properly and assist in speech development. Early tooth loss can have a significant impact on the overall development and alignment of a child’s teeth, which is why Laredo Orthodontics often recommends space maintainers. These devices help keep proper spacing in the mouth and prevent nearby teeth from drifting into the space, which could cause further dental issues down the line. Not only do space maintainers preserve the natural alignment of teeth, but they also aid in the child’s ability to chew, talk, and maintain good oral hygiene. These small appliances may seem insignificant, but space maintainers can make a big difference in a child’s oral health after early tooth loss.
PLACING SPACE MAINTAINERS
The space maintainer placement process involves a few simple steps. First, the treatment area where the space maintainer is cleaned and prepped. Next, our Laredo orthodontist will take a mold of your child’s teeth to create a custom-fitted space maintainer. Once the space maintainer is ready, it is placed in the open space between your child’s teeth. Then, our orthodontist ensures that the space maintainer is secure and comfortable before sending your child on their way with proper care instructions. By following the instructions and attending regular dental appointments, your child can maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
HOW TO CARE FOR SPACE MAINTAINERS
Once your child is fitted with a space maintainer, it’s essential to care for it properly to ensure the appliance remains effective. The first step is to brush around the space maintainer using a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. Flossing is also essential to remove any trapped food particles. It’s also vital to avoid sticky and chewy foods that can damage the device. Finally, if the space maintainer becomes loose or damaged, schedule a visit with our Laredo orthodontist.
SPACE MAINTAINERS: PLACEMENT, MAINTENANCE, AND BEYOND
If you’re the parent or guardian of a growing child and you’re concerned about their smile after early tooth loss, consider talking to our Laredo orthodontist about space maintainers. Space maintenance is an essential part of keeping young mouths healthy as teeth become crowded or impacted. Contact Laredo Orthodontics to learn more about space maintenance by calling (956) 724-8391.
