Though it can sound intimidating, a pediatric root canal is a relatively simple procedure. Your child’s dentist may recommend it if a tooth has become infected due to damage or decay. The following is a closer look at this procedure and some key things parents should know.
Cavities are common in children, and sometimes, they progress to the point where they infect the pulp at the center of the tooth, causing pain and inflammation and putting the child at risk for spreading infection and tooth loss. A pediatric root canal is an endodontic procedure performed on primary or baby teeth that have become infected like this. The dentist either removes infected pulp from the crown of the tooth (pulpotomy) or from the crown and root canals (pulpectomy), fills and restores the tooth.
Even though baby teeth eventually fall out and are replaced by adult teeth, they are still important to the child’s oral health future. Premature loss of baby teeth can not only impact how a child eats and speaks but also disrupt the eruption and alignment of the adult smile. That is why it is important to preserve baby teeth until it is naturally time for them to fall out. This is a key goal of a pediatric root canal.
This procedure is performed under local anesthesia to remove infection and restore the tooth. A pediatric root canal starts by numbing the treatment area so the child will not feel pain during the procedure. Then, the dentist uses special tools designed for working with children’s teeth to remove the infected pulp. Next, the tooth is disinfected and filled, usually with a biocompatible material. The dentist will restore the tooth with a dental filling and, possibly, a dental crown.
Parents must know that a pediatric root canal involves little to no discomfort. Parents can prepare their children by explaining that the dentist will perform a simple procedure to relieve their toothache and keep their teeth and mouth healthy. If parents remain calm and keep the explanation fairly simple, their child should stay calm. Allow the child to bring a toy, book, or game to the appointment as a distraction. Parents can ask the dentist about possible sedation options if the child is especially anxious.
The recovery period is fairly short; most children can return to school the following day. However, parents should tell their child’s teacher they had the procedure. The dentist will send parents and children home with aftercare instructions that can differ depending on the child; these instructions will include information on side effects and complications to watch for.
In general, children should not chew until the anesthetic has worn off, and chewing on the tooth that had the procedure should be avoided. Children should rest for the remainder of the day after the procedure and be careful with oral hygiene around the treated area. Swelling and pain should be minimal and well managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Pediatric Root Canal in Middletown, NY
Hudson Valley Pediatric Dentistry is dedicated to keeping children’s mouths and smiles healthy. Our pediatric team will provide state-of-the-art care for your child in a comfortable environment. Call us today if you have any further questions about pediatric root canals or wish to schedule an appointment.
Request an appointment or call Hudson Valley Pediatric Dentistry at 845-363-4177 for an appointment in our Middletown office.
Knowing that your child will need a pediatric root canal can be overwhelming. A root canal treatment does not leave a positive impression because of its invasive nature. Understanding this procedure will enable you to prepare yourself and your child for the next visit. Here are the details on getting a pediatric root canal.The consultation…
A pediatric root canal is important for preventing pain and keeping your child's mouth healthy. While the idea of a pediatric root canal may not be pleasant for most parents, Your child will be in good hands with a pediatric dentist. Here are some things parents can do before and after a pediatric root canal…
A pediatric root canal is a safe and effective procedure often necessary to save a severely decayed or infected tooth. However, following a thorough post-treatment plan is just as important as the procedure itself. The right post-procedure care ensures your child heals properly and maintains a bright and happy smile.A pediatric root canal is where…
Wondering about the importance of finding a kids dentist? Read on to learn more. A parent's primary goal is to safeguard their children's health and success in all aspects. Good oral health is a requirement for good overall health, and locating the right kids dentist might impact a child's attitude toward dental visits. A highly…
Seeking the help of a kids dentist to maintain your child’s oral health is a serious responsibility. As a parent, you must ensure that your child’s dentist will be able to care for your child’s general well-being. Knowing what your dentist can do for your child is a motivator to bring your child in for…