Some kids lose a baby tooth because of decay or trauma before the adult tooth is ready to erupt. This can present future dental problems. For example, a missing tooth will cause the remaining teeth to shift, and as surrounding teeth fill in the space, this takes away room for permanent teeth. The result is a crowded and crooked adult set of teeth. This will affect mouth function in every way, from speaking to chewing.
Space maintainers are the solution to fill in missing tooth gaps. This orthodontic is crafted to custom-fit your child’s mouth and secure primary teeth in position so permanent teeth can erupt through the gums correctly. Once the underlying permanent tooth is ready to come in, your child’s pediatric dentist will remove the preventative device.
We will discuss the different types of space maintainers with you to determine the best option for your child. Some space maintainers are a plastic or metal temporary crown attached to a bar or a loop, while others are designed with a band.
A space maintainer may need to be worn for several years since your child will be getting in their permanent teeth until around the age of 14. Therefore, it is very important to take proper care of the device by following these guidelines:
Space maintainers are a great way to keep your child’s smile corrected well before their permanent teeth arrive, setting a solid foundation for a healthy bite and aligned smile. Book a consultation for space maintainers today!
Dr. Jason M. Golnick received his DDS degree and his MS degree in Pediatric Dentistry from the University of Michigan. He is a C.S. Mott Fellow in Pediatric Dentistry and has served as a adjunct clinical professor in the Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics at the University of Michigan, School of Dentistry. Dr. Jason Golnick is an active staff member of Oakwood Hospital and the Detroit Medical Center / Childrens Hospital of Michigan,