Why Might Kids Need Partial Dentures?
Although dental appliances for children are uncommon, partial dentures may occasionally be necessary, especially for missing permanent incisors. Accidents, decay, or genetic issues can cause children to lose their front teeth prematurely, leading to functional and emotional challenges. Traumas like playground falls or improper oral hygiene often result in tooth loss. In such cases, replacing missing teeth can be important for maintaining a child’s self-esteem, particularly when the gaps are highly visible.
Options for Replacing Missing Teeth
When a child loses front teeth early, parents often wonder whether replacement is necessary. If the permanent teeth are about to erupt, waiting might be reasonable. However, if the replacement is years away, a partial denture can be helpful in supporting the child’s confidence. For primary teeth, Groper appliances (also called pedo-partials) are often used, with artificial teeth attached to a metal bar connected to the baby molars. For older children missing permanent incisors, removable partial dentures are a common choice until dental implants become viable after facial growth is complete.
