What is a Dental Space Maintainer?
A dental space maintainer is a custom-fitted device designed for children who have lost a baby tooth prematurely. This essential appliance holds space for the permanent tooth to emerge when it’s ready, preventing the surrounding teeth from shifting into the gap. When teeth shift, it can cause the permanent teeth to erupt out of alignment or not erupt at all, leading to potential dental issues in the future.
Dental space maintainers are typically made from durable materials like metal or acrylic. They can be either cemented into your child’s mouth, which means they are meant to stay in place until a dental professional removes them, or designed with clips/hooks that allow for easy removal at home.
How Long Does My Child Need to Wear a Dental Space Maintainer?
The duration for which your child needs to wear a space maintainer varies based on individual dental development. Generally, it remains in place until the permanent tooth erupts. This period can range from several months to a few years, depending on your child’s age and the location of the missing tooth. Regular check-ups with our dental team will ensure that your child’s dental growth is monitored effectively.
How to Care for a Dental Space Maintainer
Proper care for a dental space maintainer and the surrounding teeth is crucial for maintaining good oral health. Here are some essential tips for ensuring your child’s space maintainer remains effective:
- Brush Twice a Day: Encourage your child to brush their teeth at least twice a day and floss daily, paying special attention to the area around the space maintainer. This helps prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria. If you notice red or irritated tissue around the device, it may indicate that it isn’t being cleaned properly.
- Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: Advise your child to avoid hard or sticky foods that could loosen or break the space maintainer. This precaution can help maintain the integrity of the appliance and ensure it functions as intended.
- Regular Dental Visits: Schedule regular appointments with our team for professional cleanings and examinations. During these visits, our dental professionals will assess the condition of the space maintainer, review home care techniques, and perform updated imaging (X-rays) to evaluate your child’s dental health below the gumline.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your child’s dental space maintainer supports their overall oral health as they grow.
We proudly provide dental care to families in Merrimack, NH, and surrounding communities. If you have questions about dental space maintainers or want to reserve an appointment, please contact us today! Our caring team is here to support your child’s dental health needs.
Why Choose Merrimack Smiles?
Our practice is built on a foundation of core values, including integrity, accountability, and a commitment to excellence. We believe in open communication, transparency, and treating every patient with dignity and respect. Empowering our patients through education helps them understand their dental health and the options available, ensuring informed and confident decisions about their care. At Merrimack Smiles, we treat more than just teeth; we care for people, creating an environment where you feel heard, respected, and valued.
As the only B Corp certified dental office in Northern New England, we are dedicated to the health and betterment of our community. We conduct business as if people and places matter most, employing best practices in governance and sustainability to create positive impacts that extend beyond our practice’s doors.
At Merrimack Smiles, we do things differently. Experience the difference. Come smile with us!
