Concerns About Child's Crown: Pain, Gums, and Treatment Options

Q: Concerns About Child's Crown: Pain, Gums, and Treatment Options

Hello Ms. <br>Kelly： If the edges of your braces are pressing against your gums, it is recommended to return for a follow-up appointment with your dentist for adjustments. <br>This will help avoid gum irritation and allow for proper flossing. <br>Dr. <br>Tseng Guang-Hui, Departme

Hao-style dental crown

The child had a Hawley retainer placed on May 11.
Three days prior, rubber bands were used to open the gaps between the teeth, and the retainer was placed directly after that.
However, now that it has been seven days, one side of the gap can be cleaned easily with dental floss, while 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.

There is another issue: two traditional metal crowns were placed on the lower teeth, and the gums appear smooth and normal.
However, on the upper teeth, one Hawley retainer seems to be pressing against the gums, causing them to fold over slightly.
Is this normal?
1.
Is it normal for the gum tissue to be compressed?
2.
I somewhat regret choosing the Hawley retainer.
I wonder if the dentist did not create an adequate gap for the teeth and forced the retainer in, causing the gums to become uneven.
3.
Now that the retainer has been in place for ten days, is it still possible to remove it and redo it? If it can be removed, can the teeth be reshaped on the same day, completing the process in one day? Would this affect the health of the teeth? I really regret choosing the Hawley retainer and felt uneasy about it from the beginning.
The child is not afraid of dental visits, and the same dentist did a great job on the lower teeth without any issues, so I should have trusted my instincts.
If the upper teeth were done using traditional methods, there wouldn't be any problems.

Doctor, please help me understand what the best course of action is.

Kelly, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/05/21

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

Hello Ms.
Kelly: If the edges of your braces are pressing against your gums, it is recommended to return for a follow-up appointment with your dentist for adjustments.
This will help avoid gum irritation and allow for proper flossing.
Dr.
Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2024/05/21

More Info

When it comes to concerns about a child's orthodontic treatment, particularly with the use of a "Hawley retainer" or similar appliances, it's essential to address both the physical discomfort your child is experiencing and the overall effectiveness of the treatment. Let's break down your concerns and provide some guidance.

1. Is it normal for the gums to be compressed or irritated?
It is not uncommon for children to experience some discomfort or irritation in the gums after the placement of orthodontic appliances. The adjustment period can lead to soreness as the teeth and gums adapt to the new pressure exerted by the braces or retainers. However, if the gums appear to be excessively compressed or if there is visible swelling, this may indicate that the appliance is not fitting correctly or that there is an issue with the alignment of the teeth. It's crucial to monitor the situation closely. If the discomfort persists or worsens, it would be advisable to consult with the orthodontist to ensure that the appliance is functioning as intended and to rule out any potential complications.

2. Concerns about the fitting of the Hawley retainer
Your concern about whether the orthodontist properly adjusted the spacing before placing the Hawley retainer is valid. Proper spacing is essential for the comfort and effectiveness of orthodontic treatment. If the retainer feels overly tight or if the floss is difficult to maneuver, it may suggest that the spacing was not adequately prepared. In such cases, it is important to communicate these concerns to the orthodontist. They can assess the fit of the retainer and make necessary adjustments to alleviate discomfort and ensure proper cleaning.

3. Can the retainer be removed and replaced?
If the retainer is causing significant discomfort or if you believe it was improperly fitted, it is possible to have it removed and replaced. Orthodontists typically can adjust or remake appliances if they are not functioning correctly. The process of removing and remaking a retainer can often be done in a single visit, depending on the orthodontist's schedule and the complexity of the case. However, it is crucial to discuss this option with the orthodontist to understand the implications for your child's dental health and to ensure that the new retainer will fit properly.

4. Impact on dental health
Regarding your concern about the impact of removing and replacing the retainer on your child's dental health, it is generally safe to adjust orthodontic appliances as needed. However, it is essential to ensure that any adjustments or replacements are done promptly to avoid any potential issues with tooth alignment or gum health. Prolonged discomfort or improper fitting can lead to complications, so addressing these issues sooner rather than later is advisable.

Conclusion
In summary, while some discomfort is normal after the placement of orthodontic appliances, significant pain or issues with fitting should not be ignored. It is essential to maintain open communication with your orthodontist about your child's experience. If you feel that the current retainer is not suitable, do not hesitate to request an evaluation for possible adjustments or replacements. Your child's comfort and dental health are paramount, and a proactive approach will help ensure the best outcomes in their orthodontic treatment.

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