Dealing with Tight Spaces After Crown Placement: Tips for Kids

Q: Dealing with Tight Spaces After Crown Placement: Tips for Kids

Hello： If it is confirmed that there is a cleaning issue, you should return for a follow-up appointment to have the doctor make adjustments. <br>Otherwise, there is a risk of developing gingivitis and cavities. <br>For custom and out-of-pocket items, it is reasonable and expected

Hawley crown

The child had a Hawley retainer placed on May 11th.
Three days prior, they used rubber bands to expand the gaps between the teeth, and then the retainer was placed directly.
Now, on the seventh day, one side of the gap can be cleaned easily with dental floss, but the other side is very tight and difficult for the floss to enter.
Additionally, when the floss reaches the bottom, the child feels pain, and the floss tends to fray.
What should be done about this issue? Will the gap widen with more time, or is it necessary to return to the clinic? Since the retainer is already bonded, what are the best methods to address this? Could it be that the rubber bands did not sufficiently expand the gap before the retainer was placed, resulting in a tight space? Is it advisable to use the rubber bands for 3-5 days to assess the gap before deciding when to place the retainer? What is the most appropriate course of action now?

Kelly, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/05/18

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: If it is confirmed that there is a cleaning issue, you should return for a follow-up appointment to have the doctor make adjustments.
Otherwise, there is a risk of developing gingivitis and cavities.
For custom and out-of-pocket items, it is reasonable and expected to have 2 to 3 follow-up adjustments, so there is no need to worry excessively.

Reply Date: 2024/05/18

More Info

Dealing with tight spaces after crown placement, especially in children, can be a challenging situation. It’s essential to understand that after the placement of a crown, the surrounding gum tissue and teeth may need some time to adjust to the new dental work. Here are some insights and recommendations based on your situation:
1. Understanding the Tightness: After a crown is placed, it’s not uncommon for the adjacent teeth to feel tight or for there to be difficulty in flossing. This can happen for several reasons, including the crown's fit, the natural alignment of the teeth, and the condition of the gums. If one side is easier to clean than the other, it may indicate that the crown is slightly misaligned or that the adjacent teeth are positioned differently.

2. Time for Adjustment: In many cases, the tightness can improve over time as the gums heal and adjust to the new crown. However, this is not guaranteed, and if the discomfort persists or worsens, it’s crucial to seek professional advice. The initial use of rubber bands to create space was a good strategy, but if the space did not adequately open up before the crown was placed, it could lead to the tightness you are experiencing now.

3. Flossing Techniques: When flossing in tight spaces, it’s essential to use the right technique. Instead of forcing the floss through, which can cause pain and damage the gums, try using waxed dental floss, which is thinner and may slide more easily between tight contacts. Additionally, consider using a floss threader or an interdental brush designed for tight spaces. These tools can help clean between teeth without causing discomfort.

4. Monitoring Pain: If your child experiences pain while flossing, it’s crucial to monitor this symptom. Pain can indicate that the floss is causing trauma to the gums or that there is an underlying issue, such as inflammation or an improper fit of the crown. If the pain continues, it’s advisable to return to the dentist for an evaluation.

5. Return to the Dentist: Given that it has been a week since the crown placement and you are experiencing significant tightness, it would be wise to schedule a follow-up appointment with the dentist. They can assess the fit of the crown, check for any gum issues, and determine if any adjustments are necessary. The dentist may also provide additional recommendations for managing tight spaces and ensuring proper oral hygiene.

6. Future Adjustments: If the dentist finds that the crown is indeed causing the tightness, they may need to adjust the crown or the surrounding teeth to create a more comfortable fit. It’s essential to address these issues early to prevent further complications, such as gum disease or cavities in adjacent teeth.

7. Using Rubber Bands: Regarding the use of rubber bands, they can be effective in creating space, but they should be monitored closely. If the space is not adequate after a few days, it’s best to consult with the dentist before proceeding with the crown placement. The dentist can guide you on the appropriate duration for using rubber bands based on your child’s specific dental needs.

In conclusion, while some tightness after crown placement can be normal, persistent discomfort and difficulty in cleaning should not be ignored. Regular follow-ups with the dentist are crucial to ensure that your child’s dental health is maintained and that any issues are addressed promptly. Proper dental hygiene practices, including the right tools for flossing, can also help manage tight spaces effectively.

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