Pediatric dentistry
Space Maintainers for Kids in Lakewood, CO
Keeping that parking spot reserved until the rightful owner arrives.
Children lose teeth two ways: on schedule (adorable) and too early (worth a call to us). When a baby tooth leaves before its time, the neighbors start drifting into the empty lot, and the adult tooth parked underneath finds its driveway blocked. A space maintainer is how Shining Stars Kids Dentistry keeps that parking spot reserved for Lakewood, CO kids until the rightful owner arrives.
When a space maintainer makes sense
A baby tooth lost close to its natural exit date may need nothing at all, while a back molar lost years early almost always benefits from a placeholder. At extraction visits we raise this conversation ourselves, with digital X-rays showing exactly where the adult tooth stands.
The quiet problem with early tooth loss
Baby teeth are nature’s alignment system. Each one holds the correct spacing for the adult tooth forming beneath it. When decay or injury removes a baby tooth years early, the teeth on either side lean inward, slowly and invisibly.
Fixing that drift later usually means braces-level orthodontics. Preventing it today is a small, comfortable appliance.
What to expect
Getting Fitted, the Easy Way
A comfortable appliance that quietly does its job until the adult tooth is ready.
Measure & Plan
We assess the space and the developing tooth underneath, then choose the right style of maintainer.
Custom Fit
The appliance is sized for a comfortable, secure fit with nothing poking or rubbing.
Quick Check-Ins
Regular monitoring happens alongside normal visits, and adjustments are fast.
Job Done, Appliance Out
Once the adult tooth is on its way in, the maintainer retires — mission complete.
The long view pays off
A maintainer today is a small investment in a straighter tomorrow. Kids who keep their natural spacing often land in simpler, shorter orthodontic treatment, or none at all. Because our orthodontist works right here in the office, the handoff from space-holding to any future orthodontic planning happens seamlessly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Space Maintainers
What exactly is a space maintainer?
A small custom appliance, usually metal, that holds the gap left by a baby tooth so surrounding teeth do not drift into it. It stays in place quietly until the permanent tooth is ready to come through.
Does every lost baby tooth need a space maintainer?
No. A baby tooth lost close to its natural exit date often needs nothing at all. Maintainers are usually recommended when a back molar is lost well before the adult tooth is expected, since those gaps are the most likely to close.
Is a space maintainer uncomfortable?
Most kids forget it is there after the first day or two. The appliance is custom-fitted to sit comfortably, and we adjust it at regular visits if anything changes.
How long does a space maintainer stay in?
Until the permanent tooth starts coming through. At that point we remove the maintainer, which is quick and simple, and the new tooth arrives into the space it was meant to have.
Does a space maintainer need special care?
Avoid sticky foods and candies that could pull it loose, and keep brushing around it normally. We review care tips at the fitting and check on things at every regular visit.
Hold That Spot the Easy Way
If your child lost a tooth sooner than expected, come see us. A short visit now can keep their adult smile’s arrival smooth and on time.