Space Maintainers

Prevent More Dental Work Later

Preserve Your Child’s Smile with Space Maintainers in Houston

Losing a baby tooth too soon may not sound like a big deal. However, when your child's tooth falls out prematurely, it can cause their nearby teeth to move out of place. This happens because the permanent tooth isn't ready to erupt yet. That's why space maintainers in Houston are so beneficial.

Baby teeth play a vital role in your child's future smile. They leave room for adult teeth to come in correctly and prevent overcrowding and alignment issues that could require expensive orthodontic treatment later. Healthy baby teeth also help your child feel confident as they grow. They set the stage for good oral health that lasts a lifetime.

Schedule an appointment at Paul Lee, DDS. We're open as early as 7:30 a.m.

Dentist in gray jacket consulting a female patient in a modern dental office with equipment and large window blinds.

Give Your Child a Healthy Smile

Baby teeth do more than help your child chew and speak. They protect your child's future smile and overall health in important ways.

Save Money

Protecting baby teeth may help you avoid costly braces and orthodontic treatments as your child grows older. 

Feel Comfortable

A healthy smile helps your child feel good when playing, learning, and making friends at school. 

Boost Confidence

Early dental visits teach your child that caring for their smile is easy, fun, and worth celebrating.

Keep Your Child’s Teeth in the Proper Place

There are many causes of premature tooth loss. If your child hasn't been to the dentist regularly, severe tooth decay can lead to a tooth falling out too soon. It can also be a result of an accident that happens while they play sports or on the playground. Whatever the cause, we're happy to help maintain the proper alignment of your child's teeth.

Space maintainers are custom-made oral appliances that preserve the gap left by the tooth falling out too soon. This prevents nearby teeth from shifting out of place, which is the trigger for many teeth alignment problems. There are numerous benefits from this orthodontic option:

  • Prevents Crooked Teeth - Baby teeth hold the spot for adult teeth. If a baby tooth falls out before the adult tooth is ready, it leaves a gap in your child's smile. A space maintainer holds the gap, so the adult tooth can erupt correctly.
  • Improves Oral Function - Alignment issues can cause difficulties with chewing and speaking. It can also trigger jaw pain later down the road. Preserving proper bite alignment helps your child avoid these issues.
  • Avoids Extensive Orthodontics Later - Catching space loss early is simpler and less expensive than correcting crowded or rotated adult teeth years down the road. You save money with space maintainers as a result.

Call 713-677-2011 for space maintainers in Houston.

Frequently Asked Questions About Space Maintainers

What are space maintainers?

Space maintainers are early orthodontic treatment for children that can either reduce or eliminate the need for full braces later on. If your child loses a tooth too soon, the space maintainer holds the space to allow the adult tooth to come in without trouble. If your child has lost a tooth, we'll examine them to determine if this treatment would benefit them.

How much do space maintainers cost?
As with other kinds of orthodontics, the cost depends on the issues that need to be addressed and the solutions you choose to do so. When we examine your child, we will create a recommended treatment plan. We will walk you through all aspects of the plan, including cost. We will also review your possible payment options, including third-party financing.
Will my child need orthodontics in the future?
This is easier to answer if your child comes in for a checkup, and we monitor their developing smile. However, orthodontics can be necessary for your child. As their permanent teeth begin to emerge, we can keep on eye on their growth. If your child loses a tooth too soon, space maintainers can ensure their teeth come in straight and even. Your child may even be able to forgo full treatment if care is offered early enough. This saves you money and helps them avoid the discomfort of full braces.

Read Why Our Patients Love Us

5 out of 5 stars - 786 votes

5 Stars (786 Reviews)

Excellent care, staff is amazing and very friendly.

M. M. (Verified Patient)

Everything went smoothly. Staff was friendly, prompt, answered my questions, explained well, very thorough. Lovely visit!!

W. J. (Verified Patient)

Just had my annual dental appointment at 'Smile More' where Dr. Borwen Paul Lee, DDS is the dentist. His staff was very courteous and the hygienist was thorough and professional. She walked me through each step she was doing and even reviewed the X-rays of my mouth/teeth with me. How... Just had my annual dental appointment at 'Smile More' where Dr. Borwen Paul Lee, DDS is the dentist. His staff was very courteous and the hygienist was thorough and professional. She walked me through each step she was doing and even reviewed the X-rays of my mouth/teeth with me. How awesome! Looking for a good dentist...you must visit 'Smile More'. You will not be disappointed.

V. W. (Verified Patient)

Paul Lee and his team provide an outstanding experience every time!!! Derek is always on point and makes you feel at ease. Thank you Paul Lee & Team for taking such amazing care of me and my family!!!

A. M. (Verified Patient)

A first class office with first class professionals! In this day and age of little to no service from anyone, Dr. Lee and his staff stand out and shine. I feel so fortunate to have found them! Jo Fetterman

J. F. (Verified Patient)

Dr.Lee and his staff always make me feel very very comfortable and very personable . I love Sam the hygienist. She’s great with a super warm personality.

D. M. (Verified Patient)

I have been coming here for over ten years, even though I no longer live in the area. Dr. Lee is awesome and his staff always take great care of me. His suggestions for proactive dental hygiene maintenance are very welcome and I appreciate his focus on prevention.

J. H. (Verified Patient)

When I first started going to Dr. Lee I was very nervous but to my surprise he took all that worry away. He was extremely informative when it came to my dental care. He and his team are caring and listen to the patient. I always told my Godmom how extremely happy I was that she referred me to... When I first started going to Dr. Lee I was very nervous but to my surprise he took all that worry away. He was extremely informative when it came to my dental care. He and his team are caring and listen to the patient. I always told my Godmom how extremely happy I was that she referred me to him years ago. Thanks Dr.Lee for being caring and helpful when it comes to my dental health.

S. H. (Verified Patient)

Went for my first visit. Dr Lee and the dental hygienist, Kelly, were excellent. I felt comfortable. Dr Lee provided a plan for me to get my teeth in tip-top shape.

L. C. (Verified Patient)

Did my regular checkup with Dr paul lee and his staff. He did a phenomenal job- He has a great practice with very talented staff. strongly recommended.

H. K. (Verified Patient)