Space Maintainers for Kids in Las Vegas

A space maintainer is a custom-fit appliance that holds open the space left by a lost baby tooth until the permanent tooth is ready to come in. Dr. Ezeanolue uses space maintainers to keep neighboring teeth from drifting into that gap. This service is part of our full Restorative Dentistry approach.

A space maintainer is often recommended after a baby tooth is lost early, whether from decay, an extraction, or an injury, and the permanent tooth underneath isn’t ready yet.

When Does a Child Need a Space Maintainer?

A space maintainer is usually needed when:

  1. Early Tooth Loss. A baby tooth is lost well before the permanent tooth underneath is ready to erupt.
  2. Tooth Removed Due to Decay. An extraction was needed for a severely decayed tooth.
  3. Tooth Lost to Injury. A tooth was knocked out or removed after trauma.
  4. Neighboring Teeth Starting to Shift. Nearby teeth are beginning to drift into the open space.

Dr. Ezeanolue will check whether a space maintainer is the right step at your child’s visit.

The Pediatric Space Maintainer Process

      1. Exam and Evaluation.

      Dr. Ezeanolue examines the space and checks how close the permanent tooth is to erupting.

      2. Choosing the Right Type.

      Most cases use a fixed space maintainer, cemented in place for reliable results. A removable option may be considered if a child is missing more than one tooth.

      3. Fitting the Appliance.

      For a single missing tooth, the visit can often be completed the same day. If a bilateral appliance is needed, an impression is taken and sent to a dental lab for a custom fit.

      4. Monitoring Over Time.

      Dr. Ezeanolue checks the space maintainer at regular visits and removes it once the permanent tooth is ready to come in.

Mild gum irritation after placement is normal and usually settles quickly.

Why Dental Space Maintainers Help Children

Prevents Teeth From Shifting. A space maintainer stops neighboring teeth from drifting into the open space, keeping the smile on track.

Protects Proper Alignment. Holding the space open helps the permanent tooth come in where it belongs, reducing crowding later.

Can Reduce the Need for Braces Later. A well-placed space maintainer today can mean less orthodontic work down the road.

Dr. Ezeanolue can also advise on Orthodontic Monitoring if early alignment concerns come up during your child’s visit.

Keeping Your Child Comfortable

Placing a space maintainer is a simple, comfortable visit for most children. There’s no drilling involved, and the appliance is custom-fit to sit gently against the gum and surrounding teeth.

Some mild gum irritation for the first day or two is normal as your child gets used to the appliance. This usually settles on its own quickly.

Dr. Ezeanolue will show your child the appliance beforehand and explain the visit in simple, friendly terms, so they feel prepared and at ease.

Why Choose Us

Why Families Choose Us

Board Certified Care.

Dr. Ezeanolue is board certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, with 15 years of pediatric dentistry experience.

Wide Insurance Acceptance.

We accept Nevada Medicaid (SilverSummit), CHIP, Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross, Cigna, Delta Dental, Guardian, MetLife, United Healthcare, Principal, and more, plus in-house payment plans.

Same-Day Fitting Available.

For a single missing tooth, a space maintainer can often be placed the same day as your child's exam.

Trusted by Las Vegas Families.

Kids Choice Pediatric Dentistry holds a 5.0 star Google rating from 413 local reviews.

Bilingual Team.

Our staff speaks English and Spanish to support families comfortably.

F. A. Q

Frequently Asked Questions About Space Maintainers for Kids

How much does a space maintainer cost for kids?

Cost depends on the type of space  maintainer and your insurance coverage. We accept Nevada Medicaid, CHIP, and many major insurance plans, plus in-house payment plans. Contact our office and we’re happy to walk you through your specific coverage and options.

In most cases, yes. Without one, neighboring teeth can drift into the open space and crowd the permanent tooth trying to come in. Dr. Ezeanolue can confirm whether your child’s situation needs one.

Contact our office as soon as possible. The space can begin closing quickly once the appliance is out, so a prompt visit helps protect the spot for the permanent tooth.

 It stays in until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt, which varies by child. Dr. Ezeanolue checks it at regular visits and removes it at the right time.

No. Placing a space maintainer is a simple, comfortable visit with no drilling involved. Some mild gum irritation for a day or two afterward is normal.

Schedule Your Child's Space Maintainer Visit

If your child has lost a tooth early, our team is here to help protect their smile with a comfortable, custom-fit space maintainer.

.