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Space maintainer is a method used in children. Milk tooth loss occurs for various reasons. An object called a retainer is placed around the empty tooth base. In this way, the adjacent teeth are prevented from shifting into the space.
 

Space Maintainer Types;

Fixed Space Maintainer Appliances

Fixed space maintainers are metal retainers that do not move and are mounted with adhesive. They can only be installed and removed by the dentist.

Removable Space Maintainer Appliances

Mobile space maintainers, like fixed retainers, are used without the need for being installed and removed by the dentist. They can also be cleaned and maintained more easily.

Movable space maintainers can be installed and removed at any time. There are some points to consider when using them. Some of these are:

Space maintainers can be removed from time to time and the mouth can be rested.

When the appliances are removed, they should be kept in water. If they are not dry and tense for a long time due to the metal formation, they may not settle in the oral structure. You can put the mobile space maintainer in a glass full of water before going to bed at night.

You can also remove the cleaning in the same way, clean the surroundings and inside delicately and put it back.

Another important point for the removable space maintainer apparatus;

The metal should never be allowed to bend or twist. It may be tight on the tooth or hurt you in a place. In this case, you should consult a doctor immediately. Do not try to fix it yourself. It may break, it may cause irreparable deformity. Thus, you will have to have a new one made.

How Long Are Space Maintainers Used?

It can be used for a longer time for early loss of milk teeth. The space maintainer apparatus should be used until the permanent teeth come out. In early losses, the jaw structure grows and develops as age progresses. Therefore, the space maintainer may be small for the tooth, its distance may shorten, and it may expand or narrow. In such cases, you should see a doctor immediately. A new space maintainer apparatus is made.

Things to Consider After Place Maintainer is Installed

There are some points to consider after the space maintainers are installed. If these are not taken into consideration, problems may occur in the use of the space maintainer.
 

• Space maintainers should not be pushed or moved with the hand or tongue.
• The area around the teeth should be thoroughly disinfected to prevent damage to the teeth.
• Fixed space maintainers are removed under the supervision of a physician. However, it is sufficient to remove removable space maintainers while eating.
• In cases such as breakage or tension, they should be replaced without waiting.
• Teeth should be brushed regularly.
• Dental check-ups should be performed every 6 months.

Benefits of Space Maintainers
 

• The use of space maintainers is important for children's dental development and healthy chewing functions.
• Early loss of baby teeth leaves a gap in their place. If this gap area is not protected, the side teeth slide into the gap.
• Thus, the area of ​​the permanent tooth that will emerge narrows. It slides to a different area from where it should emerge. This causes the formation of crooked teeth.
• Space maintainers prevent this formation.
• It keeps the alignment of the teeth at a normal level.
• It prevents damage to permanent teeth.