spacer or retainer?

[crysopac]

We see Racheal's Dentist on the 8th of August. He wants to give her a spacer. Since they pulled all her molars out she needs something in place to keep her in coming teeth straight. He thinks he can glue a spacer in place but isnt sure. I wanted to know what you all thought. Do you think putting a spacer in either gluing or pushing into the gums, is going to cause more pain? Should I just have her fitted for a retainer to wear during the day or night to keep the spaces open? If she loses her spacer they have to put it in all over again. I am terrified that it is going to cause her more pain. She is finally getting her pain back under control. She actually had fits of laughter the other day. Do you have any idea how wonderful it is to hear a 6 1/2 year old laugh till tears? Thanks for any information you can give or advice.

Crystalina

[mary0705]

I would think the biggest problem for a 6 1/2 year old wearing a retainer would be losing it since she'd have to take it out at school to eat lunch and snacks. But eeek, I think of the spacer idea and wince, so I hear ya about worrying about the pain. Wonder if they could make a permanent type of retainer like the roof expander many young kids wear. My son wore one when he was 5, it was like a retainer but permanently affixed in his mouth (I think it attached to two of his teeth, but I can't remember yesterday, much less 14 years ago, ha ha!) Good luck.

[crysopac]

I am no so worried about losing it at school as we homeschool our children. I will have to ask about the permanent thing though. I have never heard about it before so thanks a ton.


Crystalina

[gene1950]

The sound of children laughing is my favorite sound. Unless they are laughing because they set my foot on fire.

Just my two cents. I tried to put myself in her place and I guess I would favor the retainer. If the apparatus were to become troublesome for the TN it could be easily removed. Racheal should be able to slowly get use to it also. If the dentist were to put something permanent in my mouth, I would make him understand if it affects my TN, it's coming out and I don't care if he has to do it at his daughter's wedding. It's coming out NOW!