| Space Maintainers for Children - What Do They Do? |
Baby teeth start to develop around the age of six to 12 months and will come out after some time, paving the way for permanent teeth. Baby teeth stay in place until they are lost on their own during which the permanent teeth come in. In some kids, the loss of baby teeth may not happen until they are age 14. In others, baby teeth can be lost too soon as a result of dental disease or injury.
When a baby tooth has been lost before the right time for the permanent teeth to erupt, the remaining surrounding teeth may drift into the empty space. If this happens, there is a lack of space within the jaw to allow permanent teeth to come in. As such, you may have a permanent tooth that does not emerge. If it emerges, it may grow in an improper position. Due to this, a child may require orthodontic treatment. There may be other issues associated with the improper growth or eruption of teeth including difficulty in cleaning them.
A space maintainer or dental spacer may be necessary to prevent unwanted effects. The spacers hold open the space where the premature loss of baby teeth happens. This way, the spacers are able to stabilize the remaining teeth, hence preventing any possible movement until permanent teeth grow in to replace the prematurely lost baby teeth. Space maintainers may be removable or fixed to a tooth. To learn about space maintainers and why they are so essential when baby teeth are lost prematurely, contact our pediatric dentist today.
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| Baby Teeth Are Not Permanent, So Why Do They Require Special Care?
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Baby teeth do not last as long as their counterpart permanent teeth, however, they do have a crucial role in the development of a child. While in place, the child's first teeth help them to speak, chew, and smile properly. They hold the space for permanent teeth. When a child loses their baby teeth too early, the neighboring ones encroach on the space, resulting in misplaced or crooked permanent teeth. It is crucial that these teeth stay in good health. Make sure your child brushes and flosses regularly. Also, kids should limit surgery items to protect the health of their baby teeth and gums. Ensure your child visits the dentist every six months for cleanings and exams. Visit our pediatric dentist to learn how to care for baby teeth.
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| Sugary Food and Drinks: The Rule of Moderation in Dental Health |
Many foods and beverages we consume are an enemy to our oral health. We are often advised to keep the things we crave in moderation to promote our oral and general health. Cutting out sugary items and acidic beverages from our diet can be quite challenging. According to the CDC, many surveys indicate that about 49 percent of adults consume one or several sugar-sweetened beverages every day such as soda, energy drinks, coffee, and juice. These beverages can wear out the enamel over time. As such, you should consume them in moderation if you do not stop consuming them completely. Speak to our dentist about healthy living for good dental health.
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