When Children Require Dentures

Dentures are man-made teeth that are fashioned to mimic the real ones. These prosthetics are employed when there is a missing tooth or several more. The entire device includes materials that copy human gums as well. These are made out of a special kind of acrylic. A mold of the actual oral cavity that is relevant to the making of the said device is taken from the individual. This is so that the prosthetic fits perfectly. An imperfect fit can make the situation worse and contribute to pain and discomfort. There are partial and complete kinds, which are made depending on the needs of the individual. In children, it is rare for them to need these devices but there are cases in which they will.

Reasons for Dentures

The main reason why these devices are made for kids is the loss of a child's teeth. Younger kids who lose temporary pearly whites do not need these because the permanent ones come out in a few weeks to replace them depending on their age. Permanent ones come out at different stages or ages of a child's life, usually before they reach adulthood. There are cases when the wisdom teeth come out late but near the age of maturity. Accidents or damage are the top reasons why children are outfitted with prosthetics. Trauma to this part of the mouth is tricky because it could also affect the gums. Loss due to decay is unusual for children, but is more common for adults. The reason being parents often supervise their child's hygiene and cleanliness more than when they are already adults. Kids should have dentures if they prematurely lose their permanent teeth, because without any protection, the gums will be damaged due to the regular wear and tear of eating. Other teeth might also be misaligned and crooked without guidance.

Permanent and Temporary

The dentures may be permanent or temporary, depending on the age of the child. If the child fitted with them is almost to adult age and the gums have stopped growing, then the device may be a permanent one already. In spite of this, they will need to be checked regularly for changes in the measurements of their oral cavity. Kids tend to develop fast and their dental prosthetics will need to be replaced every once in a while to accommodate the growth and development of the jaws. Temporary ones still cost the same as permanent ones so it will be quite costly for the parents.

Crowns and bridges are not advisable for such young individuals due to the changes that the body goes through as it develops. These should be more convenient because they do not need to be replaced as long as they are in good condition. These are recommended when the dentist or orthodontist sees that the individual has matured thoroughly and no more significant changes are expected. These are just as costly as regular dentures, and more in most cases.

It is best to consult a pediatric orthodontist or dentist before having a child fitted for dentures. Several sessions may be needed in order to get the child used to such a big responsibility and the discomfort of the introduction of the dental prosthetics.