
When a baby tooth is lost too early, it can affect how the rest of your child’s teeth grow in. Pediatric Space Maintainers in Darien, CT are a simple yet effective way to protect your child’s future smile. At Lil’ Dente, we provide custom-made space maintainers designed to keep everything in place until the permanent teeth are ready. It’s a proactive step that can make a big difference in your child’s long-term dental health.
Early tooth loss due to decay, injury, or extraction can cause nearby teeth to shift and crowd future permanent teeth. Pediatric space maintainers are preventive tools that hold space until the adult tooth is ready to emerge, guiding your child’s smile into proper alignment. As part of our comprehensive preventive dentistry for kids, this early intervention helps minimize the need for more complex treatments later and supports a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles.
At Lil’ Dente, we combine gentle care with expert treatment, whether your child needs space maintenance, a pediatric dental crown to protect a damaged tooth, or a safe and supportive teeth extraction for kids when necessary. Our calming, child-friendly environment helps little ones feel secure at every step. We’re here to make dental visits a positive experience that encourages lifelong oral health.

Did you know...
Did you know that children who lose baby teeth prematurely have a 70% higher chance of developing orthodontic problems without a space maintainer?

Dr. Naomi became a pediatric dentist and opened Lil' Dente Pediatric Dentistry to make a lasting difference in children's lives. As an undergraduate student at Wellesley College, she volunteered on international dental missions and discovered a deep passion for children's oral health. She graduated from the University of Pennsylvania's School of Dental Medicine with two honors - community health and research - and completed her residency in children's dental care at NYU Langone Health in Brooklyn. Before long, she was practicing in Connecticut which is when her dream of Lil' Dente Pediatric Dentistry was born. Lil' Dente Pediatric Dentistry is an extension of her joy and belief of creating a place where your kiddo can experience joy, comfort and the "can't wait to come back feeling" at the dentist.
Obsessed with dogs and has one of her own
Loves to travel and Portugal is her favorite country
Wants to become a pilates instructor one day
Enjoys time with her new baby and husband when out of the office
Dr. Ziyad Effendi became a pediatric dentist because he believes every child deserves a dental visit that’s full of smiles - not stress! With a big heart for little patients, Dr. Ziyad found his perfect match in a career that combines his love for healthcare and working with kids. After earning his dental degree with flying colors, he dove into advanced training in pediatric dentistry, where he learned all the tricks of the trade - from keeping tiny teeth healthy to helping nervous little ones feel right at home. Whether it’s a routine checkup or a special dental need, Dr. Ziyad is all about creating happy, healthy smiles that last a lifetime.
Truly cares for patients.
Strong expertise in her field.
Listens and communicates clearly.
Committed to excellent care.

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At Lil’ Dente, we bring years of experience and child-focused care to every treatment, including space maintainers. Our pediatric dentist in Darien, CT uses the latest tools and gentle techniques to make your child’s dental visits comfortable and effective. We’re committed to making every visit a positive one, helping kids feel at ease every step of the way.
We prioritize early pediatric preventive dental care that grows with your child’s needs. With customized solutions and a caring environment, we’re proud to be a trusted partner in your child’s smile journey. Your child’s long-term oral health is our top priority, and we’re here to support them from baby teeth to big smiles.
Our pediatric dentist brings years of training and experience in treating children of all ages. We understand how to handle growing smiles with gentle hands. Your child’s safety, comfort, and development are always prioritized.
No two children are the same, which is why we customize every space maintainer to fit their unique oral structure. This ensures proper function, comfort, and alignment. Your child receives truly personalized care every step forward.
Our pediatric dental office in Darien, CT is bright, cheerful, and designed to put children at ease. From fun decor to friendly faces, every detail is child-focused. We help kids feel relaxed and confident during every dental visit.
We start with a gentle, kid-friendly dental exam to understand your child’s specific needs. Pediatric digital X-rays help us check for early tooth loss and evaluate spacing concerns. This visit helps us decide whether a space maintainer is the right step.
If a space maintainer is needed, we take quick impressions of your child’s teeth for a precise fit. The device is custom-made to match their bite, ensuring comfort and stability. Our pediatric dentist in Darien, CT makes sure the process is easy and reassuring for your child.
Routine follow-up visits help us monitor the space maintainer’s condition and placement. We make adjustments if needed and remove the device when the adult tooth is ready to come in. Ongoing pediatric dental care keeps your child’s smile on track for healthy development.
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This depends on when the adult tooth is expected to erupt. Your dentist will monitor it regularly.
Not at all. The process is gentle and doesn’t involve any shots or drilling, just a custom fit and easy wear.
If a baby tooth falls out or is extracted before the adult tooth is ready to come in, your dentist may recommend a space maintainer.
A space maintainer is a small dental device that holds space for a permanent tooth when a baby tooth is lost too early.