Space maintainers are great resources that are used in dentistry and orthodontics. They are small, metal dental pieces that are placed where a tooth once was, whether it be an adult or baby tooth. Keep reading to find out more about space maintainers.
Outlined below are a few things to know about space maintainers, including what they do, who they are recommended for, and how they work.
There is a common misconception that space maintainers are only for children; however, that is actually far from true. Although space maintainers are commonly used for children's premature tooth loss, they actually do wonders for adult teeth too. When an adult experiences extraction or dislodgement, the result is still an empty space that is at risk. A space maintainer can keep the gap open and intact until an implant can be placed.
Space maintainers play a large role in oral health. Although they are small in size, space maintainers greatly benefit the entire oral cavity. They prevent gaps from closing and teeth from shifting, both of which can cause problems when an adult tooth erupts or when a missing adult tooth is to be replaced by an implant. If the gap is closed or if the adjacent teeth have even slightly shifted, an incoming adult tooth can become impacted, which can be painful, cause crowding, and even infect the gums. On the other hand, if the gap closes or adjacent teeth start to shift, it may be challenging to place a dental implant later on down the line.
While it may seem like a missing gap between teeth may not require oral hygiene attention, that is actually far from true. Once a space maintainer is placed in the missing gap, oral hygiene is still extremely important. Although it may be challenging to chew on the side of the mouth that has a space maintainer, it is still possible, which means food debris can get stuck. Even if there is no tooth present, the gums and surrounding teeth can still be poorly affected by food debris.
Left behind food debris can lead to irritation and bacterial growth, both of which can cause infection of the gums or surrounding teeth. Because of the risk, it is key to still practice good oral hygiene every day. Individuals wearing space maintainers should brush and floss regularly, and rinse with salt water or a gentle mouthwash to ensure that anything left behind is dislodged.
When wanting more information on space maintainers, it is best to consult with an orthodontist. A consultation allows patients to ask questions while being evaluated by the orthodontist. The evaluation will help determine the appropriate course of action. To find out more or to get scheduled for a consultation, reach out today.
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