What special care do space maintainers need?
A. Pediatric dentists have four rules for space maintainer care. First, avoid sticky sweets or chewing gum. Second, do not tug or push on the space maintainer with your fingers or tongue. Third, keep it clean with conscientious brushing and flossing. Fourth, continue regular dental visits. It’s never too early to keep an eye on your child’s oral development. Your pediatric dentist can identify malocclusion – crowded or crooked teeth or bite problems – and actively intervene to guide the teeth as they emerge in the mouth. Orthodontic treatment early can prevent more extensive treatment later. Q. What causes crowded teeth and other orthodontic problems? A. Malocclusion is often inherited. Orthodontic problems also are caused by dental injuries, the early loss of primary teeth or such habits as thumb sucking, fingernail biting or lip biting. Your pediatric dentist can help your child avoid oral habits that may create orthodontic problems. Q. Why is early orthodontic care important?
