06
Apr
How Do Dental Space Maintainers Work?
Premature tooth loss in children can impact their permanent smile years later. If the empty spaces left by early tooth loss close, it can impede the proper eruption of permanent teeth. That’s where space maintainers come in. These devices ensure permanent teeth have sufficient space to come in correctly at their appointed time. At SV Orthodontics, we offer space maintainers to our younger patients in Sherwood Park and neighbouring areas in Toronto, Ontario, when needed.
Drs. Raman Samra and Elise Vincelette answer your questions about these devices here:
What is a space maintainer? How does it work?
A space maintainer is an appliance that protects the space left by a baby tooth when it’s lost prematurely. This ensures your permanent tooth has ample room to come in later. If this space isn’t protected, neighbouring teeth may start to drift to fill the gap left by your missing baby tooth. This can block the eruption of your permanent tooth, causing it to become impacted or come in crooked.
Are space maintainers permanent? How long do they have to be worn?
No, space maintainers aren’t permanent. At best, they may be worn for a few years, depending on when a child loses one or more teeth prematurely. Their job is to save the space designated for adult teeth so these teeth can erupt into their proper positions. When your child’s permanent teeth have erupted either partially or completely, the space maintainer will be removed.
What materials are space maintainers made of?
Space maintainers are generally made of a metal material that’s strong enough to last for several years or however long it takes for the permanent teeth to come in.
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Do space maintainers require special care?
Your child will need to carefully brush the area around the space maintainers to remove food and debris that can lead to plaque buildup and cavities. It’s also recommended that children avoid hard and sticky foods when wearing space maintainers to prevent accidentally damaging their appliance. We’ll inspect this appliance during routine check-ups to ensure it’s working properly.
Are space maintainers painful?
Some discomfort or soreness can be expected for the first few days after the initial placement of a space maintainer. Once your child adjusts to wearing the appliance, this soreness will cease. If at any time the space maintainer causes pain or painful chewing, contact us immediately so we can remedy the problem.
Who should I see for space maintainers near me?
You can contact Dr. Raman Samra or Dr. Elise Vincelette from SV Orthodontics to learn more about space maintainers and their uses. We can be reached at (416) 213-6646.
Dr. Raman Samra
Dr. Raman Samra, a dual-board certified orthodontist, combines his passion for art and science to transform smiles. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine, magna cum laude, from Boston University, where he also completed his Master's in Dentistry and specialized in Orthodontics. A published researcher in the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Dr. Samra is a trusted member of the Canadian and Ontario Associations of Orthodontics. Recognized as a Top Dentist in Boston for several years, his dedication extends globally, having served on a dental mission in Panama to support underserved children.Connect with Dr. Raman Samra on LinkedIn
Dr. Elise Vincelette
Dr. Elise Vincelette is an esteemed orthodontist with over a decade of experience recognized for her expertise and dedication. A magna cum laude graduate from the University of Vermont, she earned her Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the prestigious University of Pennsylvania, where she received the Excellence in Oral Medicine award. Dr. Vincelette is dual-board certified and was recognized as a Top Dentist in Boston for six consecutive years. She served as the team orthodontist for the Boston Celtics for seven years, exemplifying her skill and authority in her field. Passionate and personable, Dr. Vincelette ensures exceptional patient care.Connect with Dr. Elise Vincelette on LinkedIn
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