Dr. Peter Tzendzalian, DDS
Kristin Tzendzalian
Mission TripsSpace Maintainers
Children often lose their baby teeth prematurely, either due to tooth decay, accidents, or other factors. When a primary tooth is lost too early, there is a risk that the surrounding teeth may shift into the vacant space, causing alignment problems when the permanent tooth starts to emerge. This is where space maintainers play a crucial role.
Understanding the Need for Space Maintainers
A space maintainer is a custom-made device that holds the space between teeth open, preventing neighboring teeth from shifting and maintaining enough room for the permanent tooth to grow in to its correct position. By using proper space maintainers, more complex orthodontic treatments can be avoided in the future.
The Problem of Premature Tooth Loss in Children
Premature tooth loss in children can occur due to various reasons, such as:
- tooth decay
- accidents
- congenital defects
Losing a baby tooth too early can disrupt the natural alignment of the teeth and affect the overall dental development. Baby teeth, also known as primary teeth, act as placeholders for the permanent teeth. When a primary tooth is lost prematurely, it creates a space that neighboring teeth may start to shift into.
How Space Loss Affects Dental Development
Space loss due to premature tooth loss can have a significant impact on a child’s dental development. When a permanent tooth does not have enough space to grow properly, it may come in at an angle. This can lead to:
Tooth impaction
Crowding
Misalignment
Other orthodontic issues
In some cases, orthodontic treatment such as braces or tooth extraction may be necessary to create enough space for the adult tooth. However, by using space maintainers, the proper spacing can be maintained, allowing the permanent tooth to grow in its correct position. This helps prevent more complex orthodontic treatment and ensures a healthier, more aesthetically pleasing smile.
The Process of Fitting Space Maintainers
Fitting space maintainers involves a multi-step process to ensure proper placement and functionality.
The first step is an initial consultation with a pediatric dentist. If a space maintainer is recommended, the next step is custom design. Once the space maintainer is ready, the child will return to the dentist for the fitting, completing the entire process.
Initial Consultation and Assessment
The initial consultation with Dr. T is the first step for fitting space maintainers. During this consultation, the dentist will examine the child’s teeth and determine if a space maintainer is necessary.
Dr. T will assess the child’s dental development, considering factors such as:
- the age of the child
- the condition of the surrounding teeth
- the space available for the first permanent molar to grow in
This assessment is important in determining the most appropriate type of space maintainer for the child. Dr. T will also discuss the procedure with the child and their parent or guardian, addressing any concerns or questions they may have.
Custom Design and Fitting of Space Maintainers
After the initial consultation and assessment, the next step in fitting space maintainers is custom design. This involves taking impressions of the child’s mouth to create a custom-fit space maintainer. The impressions are sent to a dental laboratory, where skilled technicians use them to create a space maintainer that is tailored to the child’s unique dental structure.
Once the space maintainer is ready, the child will return to Dr. T for the fitting. He will carefully place the space maintainer in the child’s mouth, ensuring that it fits properly and provides the necessary space for the permanent tooth to grow in. Dr. T will also provide instructions on how to care for the space maintainer and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor its effectiveness.
Why Choose Aesthetic Oral Health for Your Child’s Space Maintainer
When it comes to your child’s dental health, it is important to choose a trusted provider. Aesthetic Oral Health is a reputable and experienced dentistry practice in Durham, North Carolina that is experienced in providing space maintainers for children.
Our skilled team, led by Dr. T, is dedicated to providing compassionate and professional care, ensuring that your child’s space maintainer is custom-designed and fitted to meet their specific needs. We understand the importance of maintaining proper dental development and strive to deliver the highest quality of care. With Aesthetic Oral Health, you can trust that your child is in good hands.
Book a Space Maintainer Consultation Today
If you believe your child may benefit from a space maintainer, don’t hesitate to book a consultation with us. Aesthetic Oral Health offers convenient and accessible appointments to patients in the Durham, North Carolina and Research Triangle area to assess your child’s dental needs and discuss the possibility of fitting a space maintainer. By booking a consultation with Aesthetic Oral Health, you are taking an important step in ensuring your child’s dental development is on track and setting them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
