My four-year-old had an accident that caused him to lose his two front teeth. I wanted a way to replace those teeth so I didn’t have to worry about his other teeth shifting. When I asked about getting him a dental flipper, my dentist said that was a ridiculous idea. I don’t understand. I looked online for one you can order but they only seem to have adult-sized ones. Is there a way to get him one or is my dentist right and I’m being ridiculous?
Kathryn
Dear Kathryn,
So here is the thing. You are not being ridiculous, but your dentist is correct that it isn’t a good option. I will say right up front I do not like the way your son’s dentist responded to you. One thing every dentist who works with children needs to understand is the emotional element with parents. Their child is the most important thing in their lives. Your questions should always be treated with respect. Plus, just because your question seems obvious to your dentist doesn’t mean it should be obvious to you.
When it comes to shifting teeth for children, which you were wise to consider, that mostly has to do with their back teeth because their permanent molars don’t start coming in until they’re like twelve years old. The front teeth are not that big of an issue and his adult teeth should come in just fine. If he were to lose a back tooth prematurely, your pediatric dentist would want to put a space maintainer there.
I’d also like to address why the dental flipper would not be a suitable tooth replacement in your son’s case. First, they are removable, which can be a choking hazard. Also, with them being removable it is not very likely a four-year-old is going to keep it in or keep from losing it, even if you have a very responsible young fella’. Another consideration is his jaw and mouth are in constant flux and growth at this stage of his life. This means you will have to buy new ones often.
I hope this puts your mind at ease.
This blog is brought to you by Kalamazoo Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Susan Dennis.