At Smile Creations Dental in Suwanee, GA, our team of experienced dentists, including Dr. Thulasi Muppuru, DDS, and Dr. Natasha Lisin-Queen, DDS, are dedicated to ensuring the oral health of your children. One important service we offer is the use of space maintainers in pediatric dentistry.
What Are Space Maintainers?
Space maintainers are custom-made dental devices used to keep a space open when a child’s tooth is lost prematurely. This ensures that the surrounding teeth do not shift into the open space and allows the permanent tooth to erupt properly. Dr. Natasha Lisin-Queen explains that maintaining these spaces is crucial for proper alignment and development of your child’s teeth.
Why Consider Space Maintainers?
The primary benefit of space maintainers is that they help guide permanent teeth into their correct positions. Some advantages include:
- Prevents Misalignment: Avoids potential crowding or misalignment issues later.
- Saves on Future Treatments: Reduces the need for more extensive orthodontic treatments in the future.
- Maintains Functionality: Keeps chewing and speech functions normal while waiting for permanent teeth.
The Space Maintainers Process
The process of fitting a space maintainer involves a few straightforward steps:
- Consultation: Initial assessment with Dr. Thulasi Muppuru to determine the necessity of a space maintainer.
- Mold Creation: An impression of your child’s mouth is taken to create a custom-fitted device.
- Placement: The custom space maintainer is then placed by our skilled team to ensure comfort and effectiveness.
- Monitoring: Regular check-ups to monitor progress and adjust as needed until the permanent tooth emerges.
Your Child’s Experience with Space Maintainers
When preparing for space maintainers, it’s important for parents to know what to expect:
- Your child might feel some initial discomfort, which typically subsides quickly.
- An adjustment period where your child gets used to the new appliance.
- Avoid sticky or chewy foods that could dislodge the maintainer.
Common Questions About Space Maintainers
How long will my child need a space maintainer?
The duration varies depending on how quickly the permanent tooth emerges but typically ranges from a few months to several years.
Are there different types of space maintainers?
Yes, there are fixed and removable types. The choice depends on your child’s specific dental needs as assessed by our team.
What should I do if the space maintainer becomes loose?
If this occurs, contact Smile Creations Dental immediately at <a href=”tel:470-239-8110“>470-239-8110</a> for guidance and an appointment if necessary.
If you have any more questions or wish to discuss whether a space maintainer is right for your child, feel free to reach out to Smile Creations Dental in Suwanee, GA. Our dedicated team is here to help guide you through every step of your child’s dental journey with expertise and care.