Space maintainers are great resources that are used in dentistry and orthodontics. They are small, metal dental pieces that are placed where a tooth once was, whether it be an adult or baby tooth. Keep reading to find out more about space maintainers.
Outlined below are a few things to know about space maintainers, including what they do, who they are recommended for, and how they work.
There is a common misconception that space maintainers are only for children; however, that is actually far from true. Although space maintainers are commonly used for children's premature tooth loss, they actually do wonders for adult teeth too. When an adult experiences extraction or dislodgement, the result is still an empty space that is at risk. A space maintainer can keep the gap open and intact until an implant can be placed.
Space maintainers play a large role in oral health. Although they are small in size, space maintainers greatly benefit the entire oral cavity. They prevent gaps from closing and teeth from shifting, both of which can cause problems when an adult tooth erupts or when a missing adult tooth is to be replaced by an implant. If the gap is closed or if the adjacent teeth have even slightly shifted, an incoming adult tooth can become impacted, which can be painful, cause crowding, and even infect the gums. On the other hand, if the gap closes or adjacent teeth start to shift, it may be challenging to place a dental implant later on down the line.
While it may seem like a missing gap between teeth may not require oral hygiene attention, that is actually far from true. Once a space maintainer is placed in the missing gap, oral hygiene is still extremely important. Although it may be challenging to chew on the side of the mouth that has a space maintainer, it is still possible, which means food debris can get stuck. Even if there is no tooth present, the gums and surrounding teeth can still be poorly affected by food debris.
Left behind food debris can lead to irritation and bacterial growth, both of which can cause infection of the gums or surrounding teeth. Because of the risk, it is key to still practice good oral hygiene every day. Individuals wearing space maintainers should brush and floss regularly, and rinse with salt water or a gentle mouthwash to ensure that anything left behind is dislodged.
When wanting more information on space maintainers, it is best to consult with an orthodontist. A consultation allows patients to ask questions while being evaluated by the orthodontist. The evaluation will help determine the appropriate course of action. To find out more or to get scheduled for a consultation, reach out today.
Request an appointment here: https://www.littlemolarsnj.com or call Little Molars Pediatric Dentistry at (862) 451-8222 for an appointment in our West Caldwell office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Space Maintainers in West Caldwell, NJ.
Seeing a kids dentist for regular checkups can maintain your child’s good dental health from day one. Primary teeth are as important to a child’s health as permanent ones. That is why caring for them is crucial. Here are the important points of going to your kids dentist for regular dental checks.Kids must value healthy…
Children do not often list going to the dentist as one of their favorite activities, but regular visits to the kids dentist are among the most important things that they can do in early life. By starting early, a pediatric dentist helps prepare children for a successful future that is free from major oral health…
Kids dentists provide multiple services dedicated to preserving or improving your little ones' oral health. Poor oral health can cause a ripple effect in your kid's development. The teeth play an integral role in their functioning, from bone structure and speech to the digestive and respiratory systems. A kids dentist can help set the foundation…
Your kids dentist can help prevent serious dental issues. Bringing your child in for regular checkups enables the dentist to detect and treat any minor problem. This type of provider has an important role in keeping your child’s mouth healthy. Here is the multi-faceted role of a kids dentist in preventive dentistry.Maintaining a child’s oral…