If your child lost a tooth from a fall or injury, it's important to act quickly. Timely dental care is essential for the long-term health of an injured tooth. In fact, getting treatment within the first few hours can often determine whether the tooth can be saved or not.
Tooth loss due to trauma is common in active children. Fortunately, there are treatment options to replace missing teeth.
- For baby teeth: No immediate treatment is usually required if a baby tooth is lost. The adult tooth will usually develop on its own, but regular dental check-ups can ensure your child's teeth are developing properly.
- For permanent teeth: If a permanent tooth is lost, the treatment options will depend on your child's age and how developed their jaw is.
- A space maintainer helps to keep the gap open for the adult tooth to grow in later or in preparation for future treatments, such as braces.
- A dental bridge involves placing a false tooth in the gap until your child is old enough for a more permanent solution, like a dental implant.
- A removable partial denture is a non-invasive option. It's a temporary false tooth that your child can take out, offering a practical solution for both eating and appearance.
As your child’s jaw fully matures, a dental implant might become an option. Implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth, but are typically recommended after teenage years, when jaw development is complete.
The best treatment option will depend on your child's age, jaw development, and overall oral health. Consulting with your dentist is crucial to determine the most appropriate solution for your child's needs.
