How Long Do Space Maintainers Stay In?
It's natural to have questions about your child's dental health, especially when it comes to orthodontic treatments like space maintainers. In this blog, we'll address one of the most common questions we get from parents – how long do space maintainers stay in?
What are Space Maintainers?
Before we delve into the timeline, it's essential to understand what space maintainers are and their role in your child's oral health. Space maintainers are devices custom-made by orthodontists to 'maintain' or 'save' space for a permanent tooth when a baby tooth is lost prematurely. This helps prevent other teeth from moving into the space and causing future dental problems.
There are different types of space maintainers - removable and fixed. The type of space maintainer your child needs will depend on factors such as the location of the missing tooth and your child's age and level of cooperation.
Timeline for Space Maintainers
The duration for which a space maintainer stays in largely depends on when the permanent tooth is ready to erupt. In some cases, it could be a few months, while in others, it could be a few years. The orthodontist will monitor this through regular check-ups.
Once the permanent tooth starts to erupt, the space maintainer is removed. It's crucial not to delay this process as it could lead to the permanent tooth coming in crooked or in the wrong position.
Caring for Space Maintainers
Proper care of space maintainers is vital to avoid any complications and ensure they serve their purpose effectively. This includes regular cleaning, avoiding hard or sticky foods, and monitoring for any signs of loosening or damage.
Regular visits to the orthodontist are also crucial. This allows the orthodontist to check the space maintainer's fit and make any necessary adjustments. It also gives them the opportunity to monitor the progress of the incoming permanent tooth.
Benefits of Space Maintainers
While the prospect of your child having a space maintainer might seem daunting, it's important to remember the benefits. Space maintainers can prevent future dental issues, potentially saving time, discomfort, and cost associated with more extensive orthodontic treatment in the future.
They also help in maintaining a healthy path for the eruption of the permanent tooth, thereby contributing to a well-aligned and functional set of teeth.
Choose the Right Orthodontist
Choosing the right orthodontist for your child's treatment is crucial. You want someone experienced, knowledgeable, and sensitive to your child's needs. The right orthodontist will not only provide effective treatment but also make the process less stressful for both you and your child.
Look for an orthodontist who is open to answering your questions, explains procedures clearly, and has a warm and welcoming environment in their clinic.
Get Expert Orthodontic Care in Covington
If you're in Covington and looking for expert orthodontic care, look no further than Blanchard Orthodontics. Dr. Alli Beth Blanchard is experienced in dealing with all kinds of orthodontic issues and is committed to providing exceptional care in a friendly and comfortable environment. Don't wait to give your child the gift of a healthy smile. Call us today at (985) 892-2081 to schedule an appointment.
