Retainers and Spacers

October 06, 2008

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Retainers and Spacers

by Amy A. Napierala, D.D.S.
reviewed by Laura Jana, M.D., F.A.A.P.

Retainers
Braces and other orthodontic treatments can achieve great results. Your child's dentist or orthodontist may recommend a retainer to maintain the effects of that hard work. Retainers can be either removable (your child puts them in and takes them out) or fixed (cemented into place).

Here are some general care tips:

A removable retainer should be brushed thoroughly with cold water and toothpaste after each period of wear.

Store the retainer in its case when your child isn't wearing it so it doesn't break.

Removable retainers have been known to become expensive chew toys for the family dog, so keep them in a safe place!

If your child has a fixed retainer, make sure that she cleans it at every brushing and flosses around it at least once a day.

If her retainer ever is damaged or lost, contact your dentist or orthodontist as soon as possible.

Spacers/space maintainers
Occasionally a baby tooth is lost before the permanent tooth is ready to emerge. This can happen for a number of reasons, including trauma, an abscess or other infection, or overcrowding. If the space that the tooth used to occupy is not held open, teeth may shift or move. Your child's dentist may recommend the use of a space maintainer, or spacer, to keep the space open until her permanent tooth comes in. Different types of appliances are available, and the dentist will select the most appropriate one.

Care for dental appliances
Children with dental appliances in their mouths must be especially diligent about their oral care and diet Appliances can collect and hold food and plaque next to their teeth, making it important to brush frequently and thoroughly.


RELATED INFORMATION

			Braces
			Fluoride
			Dental Care

Created December 17, 2000
Reviewed December 19, 2000

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