Extractions & Space Maintainers

At Smilez Pediatric Dental Group, our top priority is protecting your child’s smile and ensuring healthy dental development. While our goal is always to save and preserve baby teeth whenever possible, sometimes an extraction is the best option for your child’s oral health. When a baby tooth is removed earlier than expected, a space maintainer may be recommended to hold that space open for the permanent tooth.

Families throughout Gainesville and Western Prince William County, VA trust our team for expert pediatric extractions and space maintainer services delivered with care, compassion, and a focus on your child’s comfort.

How Are Extractions & Space Maintainers Performed?

At Smilez, we make these procedures as gentle and stress-free as possible. Here’s what parents and children can expect:

For Extractions:

Comfort First – Safe, child-friendly numbing agent and if necessary, anesthesia is used to ensure your child feels no pain.
Careful Removal – The tooth is gently loosened and removed with specialized pediatric instruments.
Post-Extraction Care – Our team provides instructions for healing, including how to manage any temporary discomfort.

For Space Maintainers:

Impression or Scan – After the extraction, we take an impression or digital scan of your child’s teeth.
Custom Appliance – A custom-made space maintainer is created to fit comfortably in your child’s mouth.
Placement & Follow-Up – The appliance is placed and adjusted to ensure proper fit. Regular checkups allow us to monitor your child’s growth and development.

Frequently Asked Questions About Extractions & Space Maintainers

Will my child feel pain during the extraction?
No. With safe pediatric anesthesia and sedation options, your child will remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
How long does it take to heal after an extraction?
Most children recover quickly within a few days, with only mild soreness that can be managed at home.
Why does my child need a space maintainer?
If a baby tooth is lost too soon, the surrounding teeth may shift, blocking the permanent tooth from erupting properly. A space maintainer prevents this.
Is the space maintainer permanent?
No. It is a temporary device that stays in place until the permanent tooth is ready to come in.
How do we care for a space maintainer?
Good brushing, flossing, and avoiding sticky or hard foods will keep the appliance in good shape. We’ll also check it at each routine visit.