Children's tooth development is important both aesthetically and functionally. However, in some cases, early loss of baby teeth due to reasons such as decay or trauma can negatively affect tooth development. Early tooth loss in children can cause deformities in the jaw structure and problems in the emergence of permanent teeth. To prevent such problems, dentists use special devices called space maintainers. This treatment, recommended by pedodontics and orthodontics specialists, contributes to children having a healthy oral structure. So, what are space maintainers and how are they used?
Let's examine the details;
What is a Space Maintainer and Why Are They Used?
Space maintainers are devices used to protect the space of baby teeth that are lost early. The aim is to ensure that permanent teeth emerge in the correct position and to prevent tooth gap problems.
Baby teeth are a guide in the child's jaw development. These teeth hold space for permanent teeth and support the balanced development of the jaw structure. However, when a baby tooth is lost early, neighboring teeth can shift into this space and cause permanent teeth to emerge in the wrong position. This is where space maintainers come into play.
Space maintainers keep the tooth space stable by:
- Supporting jaw development.
- Preventing orthodontic problems.
- Preserving the function of the teeth and allowing the child to eat comfortably.
- These appliances are specially prepared by pediatric dentists and can be applied in different types depending on the location of the lost tooth.
Causes and Results of Early Tooth Loss
Early tooth loss in children usually occurs due to cavities or traumas in the baby teeth. However, this situation can negatively affect the child's oral and dental health.
Main Causes of Early Tooth Loss
Baby Tooth Decay: Inadequate dental care and excessive consumption of sugary foods lead to decay in the baby teeth. In cases of advanced decay, tooth extraction may be necessary.
Dental Traumas: Children may lose their teeth due to falling or hitting during play.
Genetics and Health Problems: Some children may experience early tooth loss due to genetic factors or oral infections.
Results of Early Tooth Loss
Orthodontic Problems: The teeth adjacent to the empty tooth area may shift, causing the permanent teeth to grow crooked.
Jaw Structure Deterioration: The jaw bone does not develop correctly and an imbalance may occur in the child's oral structure.
Loss of Function: Tooth loss can affect the child's ability to chew and speak comfortably.
The use of space maintainers is very important to protect against the long-term effects of early tooth loss.
Types of Space Maintainers and Application Process
Space maintainers are designed in different types according to the child's tooth structure and the position of the lost tooth. In general, space maintainers are divided into two groups: fixed and removable space maintainers.
Fixed Space Maintainers
Fixed space maintainers are fixed in the mouth by the dentist and can be used for a long time without affecting the child's daily activities. These appliances are especially preferred in the case of a single tooth loss. Their advantages are as follows:
- They stay in place easily and cannot be removed by the child.
- They do not prevent the child from cleaning their teeth.
Removable Space Maintainers
Removable space maintainers are appliances that are placed in the mouth and can be removed when necessary. They can be preferred in cases of more tooth loss. These types of space maintainers: Require more control because they can be removed by the child. They can be customized both aesthetically and functionally.
Space Maintainer Application Process
Evaluation: The child's tooth structure, jaw development and the condition of the lost teeth are analyzed.
Measurement: Measurement is taken to ensure that the space maintainer fully adapts to the oral structure.
Placement: The specially designed appliance is placed in the child's mouth by the dentist.
Controls: Regular dentist checks are performed to ensure that the space maintainer maintains its function.
This process is quite effective and safe to protect the child's dental health.
Things to Consider When Using a Space Maintainer
Proper use and maintenance are essential for space maintainers to fulfill their function.
Here are the things to consider:
Pay Attention to Oral Hygiene
It is important for children to brush their teeth regularly to clean the plaque and food residue that accumulates around the space maintainer.
Do Not Skip Regular Checkups
It is necessary to go to the dentist regularly to check the fit of the space maintainer and make adjustments when necessary.
Protect the Space Retainer from Damage
Children should be careful not to affect fixed space maintainers with hard foods. It is important to clean and maintain removable space maintainers regularly.
Inform Your Child
Informing children about the importance of space maintainers and their correct use will increase the success rate of the treatment.
