Space Maintainers in Chesterfield, VA
When your child loses a tooth before the adult replacement is ready to come in, it's essential to schedule a visit with a pediatric dentist. If not treated properly, premature loss of baby teeth can lead to bigger problems down the road. If you live in Chesterfield, VA, the expert team at Bitty Bites Pediatric Dentistry can help you determine if your child needs a space maintainer.
What Are Dental Space Maintainers?
Dental space maintainers (or spacers) hold the space in your child's mouth open after a baby tooth has fallen out. They are important tools in orthodontics because they hold space for the adult teeth to grow in and prevent the remaining adjacent baby teeth from shifting into the empty space.
Are There Different Types of Dental Space Maintainers?
There are two main types of dental space maintainers: removable and fixed. Removable space maintainers are easy to take out and clean, but they must be worn as directed. Fixed space maintainers are permanently cemented in place and can only be removed by a dental professional.
Different types of fixed dental spacers include band and loop spacers, crown and bridge spacers, and implant-supported spacers. Each type of space maintainer has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to talk to our team to find out which one is right for you.
Do Space Maintainers Hurt?
No, space maintainers do not hurt. In fact, because they are custom-made for each child, they are quite comfortable to wear, and most children don't even notice they have them in.
How Long Will My Child Have To Wear a Space Maintainer?
The simple answer is: until the new tooth is ready to come in. How long that takes can vary greatly from child to child. For some children, the permanent tooth may come in within a few months. For others, it may take a year or more. The spacer will be removed when the permanent tooth is ready to come in.
How Do We Care for a Space Maintainer?
Caring for a space maintainer is vital to ensure that it works properly and lasts as long as it should. Here are a few tips on how to care for your child's space maintainer:
- Brush the space maintainer along with the child's teeth twice a day.
- Floss around the space maintainer daily.
- Avoid hard and sticky foods that can damage or dislodge the space maintainer.
- Come for regular dental exams to ensure the dental spacer does not need adjustment.
Where Can I Find Dental Spacers Near Me?
At Bitty Bites Pediatric Dentistry, we believe that every child deserves a healthy smile. That's why we offer custom-made dental space maintainers for young patients living in Chesterfield, VA. If your child has lost a baby tooth prematurely, call us at 804-215-8600 or fill out our online form to book an appointment today!