Space Maintainers – Castle Rock, CO
Proper Tooth Eruption When the Time Comes
At Castle Rock Smiles, Dr. Benzley and Dr. Sherman share in the excitement when a child loses a baby tooth. However, what is normally a celebratory occasion can become a potential problem if one falls out too early. Fortunately, with space maintainers in Castle Rock, we can avoid future eruption issues and dental misalignment. If you have a child whose tooth has come out too soon, call our office to schedule an appointment today.
Why Choose Castle Rock Smiles Pediatric Dentistry for Space Maintainers?
- Two Board-Certified Pediatric Dentists on Staff
- We Welcome Your Dental Insurance
- Comfort Amenities Available for Dental Patients
What Is a Space Maintainer?
If you want your child to experience a healthier, properly aligned smile once their permanent tooth erupts, ask our dentists about a space maintainer. When a baby tooth falls out early, this small device keeps natural teeth from shifting out of alignment while waiting for the permanent tooth to move into place. This keeps the vacant socket uncovered and reduces the potential for dental drift, a common problem that can lead to orthodontic treatment in the future.
Why Would My Child Need a Space Maintainer?
Your child will need a space maintainer if their baby tooth falls out sooner than expected. This can happen as a result of dental injury (i.e., a knocked-out tooth) or dental disease. By installing a space maintainer, your child will be less likely to experience problematic tooth eruption once the permanent one begins to push through the gums. Also, it minimizes the chances that they’ll need orthodontic treatment because their natural teeth will be held in place by the small device.
What Is the Process of Getting a Space Maintainer?
When placing a space maintainer, our dentists will use a metal ring and cement it onto the healthy tooth next to the gap. This will stay in place until the permanent tooth fully erupts.
Depending on your child’s needs, they may require a fixed or removable maintainer – a conversation you can expect us to have during your child’s appointment.
A fixed space maintainer ensures your child doesn’t remove it while waiting for the tooth to erupt. A removable one is not cemented in place but can be easily removed when it’s time to clean it.
Caring for Your Child’s Space Maintainer
If your child is required to wear a space maintainer, you will need to make sure that they avoid sticky or crunchy foods, as this can cause the device to break or become detached from their tooth. Also, certain foods can cause the space maintainer to move and irritate soft oral tissues, like the gums.
It’s important that your child continue to practice good oral hygiene at home, which includes brushing twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste. If your child has a removable space maintainer, they can take it out and gently rinse it. They’ll also need to limit their intake of sugary or acidic foods, and continue to see our team for regular checkups and cleanings.
