Pediatric Space Maintainers in Voorhees, NJ
When your child experiences a dental injury, prompt, gentle care makes all the difference. Dr. Jeffrey Singer provides expert treatment for chipped, loose, and knocked-out teeth in a comforting environment designed just for kids.
When a child loses a baby tooth too early, the surrounding teeth can drift into the space left by the missing tooth, creating problems that may require extensive orthodontic treatment later. Space maintainers are simple dental appliances that hold the gap open, allowing the permanent tooth to erupt properly when the time comes.
At ABC Children’s Dentistry in Voorhees, NJ, Dr. Jeffrey Singer has been helping families protect their children’s smiles since 2004. Building on his unique blend of clinical knowledge and ability to make dental care fun, Dr. Singer ensures that even procedures like fitting space maintainers become positive experiences in our Disney-themed office.
Why Do Children Need Space Maintainers?
Baby teeth do more than help kids eat and speak. They also guide permanent teeth into place. Each baby tooth keeps its spot until the permanent tooth below is ready to erupt.
When a baby tooth is lost prematurely due to decay, injury, or extraction, the teeth on either side of the gap can begin shifting within weeks. Back teeth may drift forward, and opposing teeth may move down or up into the space left by the drifting teeth. This domino effect can block the permanent tooth from coming in where it belongs.
How Space Maintainers Prevent Dental Problems
Space maintainers prevent these unwanted movements by literally maintaining the space where the permanent tooth will eventually erupt. Without intervention, your child may develop crowding, impacted teeth, or misalignment that may require orthodontic treatment down the road. The appliance acts as a placeholder, keeping everything in proper position until nature takes its course.
Using a space maintainer costs far less time and money than later orthodontic treatment. It’s a worthwhile step to avoid bigger dental issues.
What Types of Space Maintainers Are Available?
There are two main types of space maintainers: removable and permanent. The type Dr. Singer suggests depends on your child’s age, which tooth is missing, and if your child can care for it.
Removable Space Maintainers
These appliances can be taken out for cleaning and eating. They work well for older children who can be responsible for tracking the device. Removable maintainers often look similar to retainers and fit comfortably in the mouth. However, they require diligent care and can be lost or forgotten.
Fixed Space Maintainers
These appliances are cemented to adjacent teeth and stay in place until the permanent tooth erupts. Fixed maintainers work best for younger children who might not keep track of a removable appliance.
There are several designs:
- Band and loop maintainers cross the gap
- Lingual arch maintainers span multiple teeth
- Distal shoe maintainers help if a back molar is lost
They require no special care beyond regular brushing and dental cleanings. Dr. Singer will guide you towards the best choice based on your child’s dental needs.
How Are Space Maintainers Placed and Maintained?
Getting a space maintainer is simple and usually takes just one visit. Dr. Singer will examine your child’s mouth and may take X-rays to check the developing adult teeth. If a fixed maintainer is needed, he’ll use molds or digital scans to make sure it fits right.
At the placement appointment, Dr. Singer uses his fun, engaging approach to keep your child comfortable. He’ll clean and prepare the anchor teeth, then carefully position the space maintainer. For fixed appliances, dental cement secures the device. For removable ones, Dr. Singer will show your child how to insert and remove them properly.
Caring for Your Child’s Space Maintainer
Fixed space maintainers need minimal maintenance beyond good oral hygiene. Your child should brush carefully around the appliance twice daily and avoid sticky or hard foods that might damage it. Regular checkups allow us to monitor the maintenance and the erupting permanent tooth.
Removable maintainers need more care. Your child should take it out before eating, clean it each day, and keep it in its case when not using it. Dr. Singer will explain how to care for it and answer any questions you have.
When Should Space Maintainers Be Removed?
The space maintainer stays in place until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt. During regular checkups, Dr. Singer monitors the development of the permanent tooth using X-rays. When he sees that the tooth is about to break through the gum, he’ll remove the space maintainer.
Removal of fixed appliances is quick and painless. The cement is gently broken down, and the maintainer slides off the anchor teeth. Your child can then enjoy watching their new permanent tooth emerge naturally into its proper position.
Schedule a Space Maintainer Consultation at ABC Children's Dentistry in Voorhees, NJ
Space maintainers offer a simple solution to prevent future orthodontic problems when baby teeth are lost prematurely. Dr. Singer has helped countless South Jersey families protect their children’s developing smiles with these effective appliances, ensuring a positive, stress-free experience.
If your child has lost a baby tooth earlier than expected or if Dr. Singer has recommended a tooth extraction, contact ABC Children’s Dentistry today. Call our office at (856) 783-3515 or complete a contact form to schedule a consultation. Dr. Singer’s caring approach will help your child feel comfortable while we protect their smile for years to come.
Meet Dr. Jeffrey Singer
Dr. Jeffrey Singer brings over 20 years of specialized pediatric dental expertise to families throughout South Jersey. As the founder of ABC Children's Dentistry in Voorhees, Dr. Singer combines exceptional clinical training with a uniquely compassionate approach that transforms routine dental visits into positive experiences children actually look forward to.
With advanced training in behavior management and hospital-based sedation dentistry, Dr. Singer provides complete pediatric dental services tailored to each child's unique needs. His expertise extends to treating children with special healthcare needs, ensuring every child receives comfortable, compassionate care in the safest possible environment.
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- 1001 Laurel Oak Rd STE E2, Voorhees Township, NJ 08043
- 856-783-3515
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