What is a Pedi-Partial and why does a child need one?
A Pedi-Partial is used when a child's front baby (deciduous) teeth, (usually upper) are lost prematurely due to trauma or decay. The Pedi-Partial allows the child to be able to eat, speak and form words clearly and also to hold the space for the permanent teeth that will come in several years later at approximately 7 or 8 years of age.
A Pedi-Partial can contain one or more teeth. The color and size are matched to your child's existing teeth. It has two rings that are attached to the baby first or second molars. The child adjusts very quickly to the appliance allowing for normal chewing and talking. Dr. Hedrick or Dr. Tujios will check at the appropriate time for the eruption of the permanent teeth. The Pedi-Partial is removed once the permanent teeth begin to erupt.
What is a Band and Loop or "Spacer"?
A Band and Loop or a "Spacer" is used when a primary tooth is extracted prematurely due to an abscess or other problem to hold the space for the permanent tooth. It is used to hold the space for the permanent tooth by preventing the space from closing. Drs. Hedrick and Tujios have an in house lab so generally your child will have the extraction, impression and delivery of the band and loop at the same appointment in order to save time on your schedule.
Why is a Stainless Steel Crown needed for my child?
Stainless steel crowns can be used on primary or permanent dentition. Stainless steel crowns can be used on any tooth but we use them only when needed. They are used when the decay is large enough that a filling will not withstand the normal day to day routine for the lifetime of the tooth. Typically they are used on first primary molars, as these teeth are prone to decay when not maintained properly. Oftentimes, a tooth needing a stainless steel crown will also need a nerve treatment called a pulpotomy. During this procedure, the nerve of the tooth is removed and a medicated paste is placed to help soothe the tooth for the remainder of the lifetime of the tooth. Dr. Hedrick or Dr. Tujios will inform you if your child needs either one of these procedures.
Stainless Steel Crown vs. White Crown on Primary Teeth
Drs. Hedrick and Tujios can do a white crown on a primary tooth if parents would prefer. White crowns are considered on a case by case basis as they are aesthetically preferred but do not stand the test of time as do the stainless steel crowns. The same procedures are performed on the tooth as on the tooth with a stainless steel crown but a tooth with a white crown will always need a pulpotomy as you have to remove more tooth structure. Dr. Hedrick or Dr. Tujios and thier staff can talk to you about the pros and cons of white crowns if your child is in need of a crown.
Why does my child need a custom fitted mouthguard?
Custom fitted mouthguards provide the most protection for your child. Custom mouthguard studies have also shown a link between wearing a mouthguard and minimizing the risk of concussions. They also protect the TMJ, soft tissue, the bone, as well as the teeth.
Many over the counter mouthguards make it hard for the child to breathe and talk at the same time while playing sports. While their protection is better than none at all the "boil and bite" mouthguards do not offer the best protection for your child.
Custom fitted mouthguards are made of a resilient material fitted to a cast of an athlete's teeth. They provide excellent retention and have been shown to have a high level of patient acceptance. They can also be adapted to mixed dentition and orthodontic patients.
If your son or daughter plays a contact sport it important for them to have the right equipment to protect them from injury. A custom fitted mouthguard is the best equipment to protect your child's mouth and teeth.
¹Stenger, J., et al JADA 69:273-281, Sept. 1964
Five year study starting with Jim Schaaf in 1958
Followed by the 1963 Notre Dame Football Team
Hickey, J. et al JADA 74:735-740, Mar,1967
Decreased bone deformation and decreased intracranial pressure
Wisniewski JF, et al, "Incidence of cerebral concussion associated with type of mouthguard used in college football" Dental Traumatology 2004;20:143-9
