Most children will lose their baby teeth when their corresponding permanent teeth push them out and replace them. However, in some cases, due to trauma, damage, decay or as a preventative measure, a child may lose a baby tooth before the permanent tooth is ready to come in. In such cases, a dentist may suggest a space maintainer to ensure that the teeth around the gap do not shift. The maintainer will secure the space left by the missing tooth until it's ready to be filled by a permanent one. Not having a space maintainer could mean your child may need major corrective treatment such as braces later on. If a space maintainer has been recommended for your child, read on to find out how it works and how you'll need to care for it.
So, What Is a Space Maintainer?
A space maintainer is usually made of a metal band with wire attached. The band fits around a chosen anchor tooth or teeth and is cemented in place. The band's attached wire then rests against the teeth that need to be kept in their current position. When there is only one tooth to be held in place, the design is often very simple. However, the design will depend on the location of the missing tooth and whether there are available teeth to anchor it to. In some cases, the space maintainer may be removable or only semi attached.
So, Your Child Needs a Space Maintainer; How Do You Care for It?
A space maintainer is very easy to take care of. The following precautions should make wearing one a non-event.
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Ensure your child takes care when eating foods that are hard or crunchy. Ideally, they should avoid chewing such foods on the side of the mouth where the space maintainer is. While the appliance is likely to be cemented in place, it can potentially be dislodged.
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If your child is under the age of eight, you should be cleaning their teeth for them. If they are over this age, then you'll need to guide them to ensure that they clean thoroughly around the maintainer to remove food and debris that can become trapped. Trapped debris can cause gum irritation and cavities.
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Familiarise yourself with the appliance when it's put in. This will make it easier for you to spot something wrong. Check the maintainer regularly to make sure that it's in the same position. Look out for changes in the teeth or tissue that the appliance is managing. If you see changes, inform a dentist as soon as possible.
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If your child's maintainer comes off, you shouldn't need to see an emergency dentist. Put it in a safe place and make sure you make an appointment as soon as possible. Delays in refitting the appliance can result in shifting teeth. Seek advice if you are unable to see your dentist for some time. Your dentist may suggest your child wears the maintainer for a few hours a day to keep teeth in place until it can be refitted.
