Call
Map

Extractions and Space Maintenance

Gentle Tooth Extractions

Sometimes it is necessary to remove a severely damaged or decayed tooth. We use space maintainers to support healthy development.

Contact Us
Extractions and Space Maintenance | Dentist

Start Your Child Smiling Today

Extractions and Space Maintenance
Extractions

Unfortunately there are some instances when a tooth cannot be saved. Whether it is due to a prior trauma, extensive decay of the tooth, or recommendation made by another specialist, there are cases that the tooth needs to be removed to prevent infection or further damage.

Our Doctors make every attempt to save a tooth, where possible. However, should an extraction be necessary, our Doctors have a gentle approach to ensure that the process is fast and seamless.

When Is a Dental Extraction Needed?

There may be some circumstances where extracting or removing a tooth is the best treatment for your child. Those situations are:

  • Tooth decay that is severe and larger than what a dental filling or crown can repair
  • Periodontal disease in an advanced stage that has caused an infection
  • A fractured or broken tooth
  • A tooth affected by trauma or an accident

We always recommended dental extractions as a last resort, and you can rest assured that if it's needed, it is to protect your child’s oral health and well-being. We make every effort to ensure your son or daughter’s comfort if extraction is necessary, and we’re here to guide you through the recovery process from start to finish.

Space Maintainers

Space maintainers are used to hold the space where a primary “baby” tooth was lost prematurely. They aid in preventing the teeth in the area from shifting together and blocking the permanent tooth from erupting properly, without additional complications.

Our doctors are specially trained to recognize where a space maintainer would be best suited, maximizing the benefits for each patient. While many cases may benefit from the placement of a space maintainer, not all cases require them due to the growth and development of the teeth surrounding the extracted tooth.

Space maintainers are regularly monitored at your child’s cleaning appointments, and once the permanent tooth starts to erupt into the mouth, the space maintainer is removed.

This preventive measure is less invasive and more cost effective in the long run, rather than attempting to reverse the movement through more orthodontic treatment in the future.

Meet Our Doctors:

Dr. Evan Reed
Bio coming soon.
Read More
Dr. Lindsey Reed
Dr. Lindsey Reed, a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry is originally from Atchison, KS. She completed her undergraduate studies at Baker University before moving to Kansas City ...
Read More
Dr. Amy LeCave
Dr. Amy LeCave, is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.

Dr. Amy earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from the University of Missouri-Columbia and graduated Magna Cum Laude ...
Read More
Dr. Jaime Orrick
Dr. Jaime Orrick is a board-eligible candidate for the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.

Originally from Indiana, she earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Indiana Purdue. Upon graduation, she ...
Read More
Dr. Danielle West
Dr. Danielle West is a Diplomat of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. She grew up outside of St. Louis in Farmington, Missouri. She attended Truman State University for her ...
Read More
Meet More of our Staff

Getting an appointment is fast and easy!

Very friendly staff!
Very friendly staff! Made my children feel very comfortable. Extremely personable giving me all the details of what to expect in the upcoming visits with my children. Top quality care, and will recommend to friends!
- Jennifer L.
See More Testimonials
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Are baby teeth important, even if they just fall out?

Baby teeth, also referred to as primary teeth, play several very important roles in your child’s growth and development. Their initial purposes include proper speech and natural chewing, as well as being a part of your child’s cute, angelic smile you love. They also help guide the permanent teeth into place as eruption occurs, acting as their own natural space-maintainers. Keeping these teeth healthy and free of decay will ensure they last as long as they were intended to and ensure that healthy permanent erupt in their place.
Read More FAQs

HOURS

By appointment only

HOURS

By appointment only

HOURS

By appointment only

HOURS

By appointment only
Notice of Privacy Practices
© 2024. All rights reserved. | St Louis Pediatric Dentistry • MO Specialty Dental Services, LLC - Evan Reed, DDS | Hosted by Specialty Dental Brands™.