Space Maintainers
When a baby tooth is lost earlier than expected, it can create challenges for how the adult teeth grow in. At Sunbeams Pediatric Dentistry, we use space maintainers to gently hold the empty space open until the permanent tooth is ready to come in naturally. This helps prevent surrounding teeth from drifting into the empty spot and causing crowding, misalignment, or bite problems later on.
What Is a Space Maintainer?
A space maintainer is a small, comfortable dental appliance that is cemented onto your child’s tooth. It cannot be removed at home, keeping it in place ensures the adult tooth grows in properly.
How Long Does It Stay In?
It stays until the permanent tooth begins to erupt. Once growth begins, we remove it gently in-office, simple, quick, and painless.
Why They’re Important
- Prevents crowding
- Reduces future orthodontic problems
- Maintains proper spacing for adult teeth
- Avoids misalignment or bite issues later
Comfort & Care
Designed to be smooth and comfortable, children can eat, drink, smile, and play normally. We provide easy care instructions and monitor it at routine checkups.
What Constitutes a Dental Emergency?
Most dental emergencies fall into one of three main categories:
- Health
- Function
- Aesthetics
Are you unable to eat, or do you have a chipped front tooth that’s too embarrassing to face work or school? If so, you need an emergency dentist who can see you as soon as possible, ideally the same day.
Some of the most common dental emergencies we treat include sharp or broken teeth, gum swelling, pain, and hypersensitivity. Other frequent issues include soft tissue lesions, such as ulcers under dentures, abscessed teeth, and traumatic injuries. Our team is here to provide prompt and compassionate care when you need it most.
Now Accepting New Patients!
Fun, gentle dental care your kids will love! Let’s make every visit a happy adventure.
