Room for Growth: The Key Role of Space Maintainers in Pediatric Dental Care
A well-aligned “bite” is essential for your child’s health, influencing everything from jaw development to effective chewing and speech. At Amp Orthodontics & Kids Dental, routine pediatric dental care is elevated by the expertise of Dr. Adam Hoina, a board-certified orthodontist. Dr. Hoina’s specialized training in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics allows him to identify and address bite issues early, assessing the need for space maintainers if a baby tooth is lost prematurely. These devices maintain the necessary space for permanent teeth to grow in, preventing neighboring teeth from shifting and ensuring proper alignment. Parents throughout the Lewisville-Clemmons area trust Dr. Hoina’s precise approach in customizing and fitting space maintainers, designed to promote healthy dental development and minimize the risk of complications that could require more extensive orthodontic intervention down the road.
What do you mean by “bite”?
Your bite describes the relationship between the opposing upper and lower teeth in the jaw when you close your mouth. Upper teeth should only slightly overlap their lower counterparts. If they jut out too much (or too little), these imbalances are characterized as an “overbite” or “underbite,” respectively. The health of your child’s primary “baby teeth” is crucial in guiding the proper positioning of the secondary “adult teeth”. Providing primary teeth with the TLC they deserve creates a strong foundation for a well-aligned bite and promotes long-term dental health.
How do baby teeth help support a good bite?
Yes, baby teeth fall out. But they should not fall out prematurely. When a baby tooth is lost too early due to trauma (like an accident) or decay, the developing secondary tooth that follows loses its “guide.” It may not grow and emerge correctly. Early loss of baby teeth can have lasting consequences, emphasizing the importance of proper care and timely intervention.
How do we prevent bite problems early on?
For starters, we highlight the importance of properly caring for your child’s baby teeth. Don’t skimp on hygiene at home simply because these teeth are temporary. When teeth are lost due to a fall or decay, we may recommend space maintainers – small devices or appliances designed to maintain the space left by the missing tooth. These devices keep neighboring teeth from shifting toward the gap, ensuring there’s enough room for the permanent tooth to emerge correctly. Teeth that are naturally becoming loose and are starting to fall out “on schedule” on their own do not require space maintainers.
Are space maintainers good for every child in this situation?
The need for space maintainers is assessed on a case-by-case basis. Dr. Hoina will carefully examine your child’s mouth and take x-rays to determine if a space maintainer is necessary. With several design options available, Dr. Hoina will recommend the most suitable solution tailored to your child’s needs. The specialized expertise of our board-certified orthodontist and dentofacial orthopedist allows us to customize each appliance for your child’s comfort and unique anatomy, ensuring the best possible outcome.
If your child is overdue for a checkup, schedule one today. Amp Orthodontics & Kids Dental strives to stay ahead of problems rather than react to them! We proactively monitor and address any concerns before they become problems. Call or text 336-999-0123 – our Clemmons team is Amped to hear from you!
