Extraction and Space Maintainer
A few millimetre of space now can guide a perfect smile in future
Sometimes due to gross infection it is indicated to extract a baby tooth before its appropriate shedding time. We provide an unique painless procedure from injection to extraction.
When is a baby tooth is taken out?
There are many reasons that lead to premature loss of baby teeth including, trauma, congenital defects, accidents, or excessive decay.
Why is a space maintainer given?
Some baby teeth are not replaced until child is 12-14. In these situations space maintainers help to maintain the space the baby tooth occupied and hence prevent the dental arch from collapsing, thus maintenance of space can alleviate crowded tooth and thus help in preventing crooked tooth. When your child reaches the appropriate age, the spacer is removed so that the permanent tooth can erupt in its proper position.
Treatment Protocol
A dental impression is taken on the first appointment and a customised spacer is fabricated in the lab. There are two general categories of pediatric space maintainers and within these categories, there are different types of maintainers.
Fixed
In general, a fixed space maintainer is a semi-permanent tooth fixture that keeps enough space open for the adult tooth to grow in. After the permanent tooth has grown in, the maintainer can be removed.
There are four types of fixed space maintainers that a pediatric dentist can use to care for your child’s teeth. These different types are crown and loop, distal shoe, lingual, and unilateral.
Removable
A removable space maintainer can be a good option if your child’s tooth is almost ready to grow in. These devices are similar to ones used in orthodontic treatments and can be customized for your child’s needs.
Usually, these devices are made of acrylic material and can be fitted with a fake tooth. These maintainers also make it easier for your child to keep good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing.
However, removable devices are usually not as effective at maintaining space as fixed devices.
