Pediatric dentistry can use treatments like root canals to preserve your child's baby teeth. The procedure is typically performed to save teeth that have a bacterial infection which has made its way into the pulp chamber.
A tooth can become infected as a result of tooth decay that was left untreated. The cavity compromises the pulp chamber and bacteria infect the soft tissue there. The end result is an infection that comes with excruciating toothaches, pus coming from around the tooth, a strange odor or a fever.
Here some of the questions people often have regarding how treatments like root canals are used in pediatric dentistry:
The two main types of root canals performed on baby teeth are pulpectomies and pulpotomies. The latter is performed when the infection does not affect the tooth's roots. In such cases, the dentist only has to clean out the pulp chamber and seal it up.
Pulpectomies are performed when the pulp chamber and the tooth's roots have been infected. The procedure involves cleaning out the roots and pulp chamber before sealing it.
The procedure for performing either type of root canal is quite similar. The dentist starts by numbing the area so the child does not feel pain while the dentist works on their tooth. A tiny hole is made in the crown of the tooth and files are inserted into it. These files are used to clean out the content of the pulp chamber.
The dentist then inserts medication that disinfects the pulp chamber through the hole. The tooth is sealed to prevent bacteria from getting in and the tooth might be protected with composite resin or a crown.
The process typically takes about an hour to complete. If a child cannot sit still for that long, the treatment can be segmented so the child gets as many breaks as they need. There are also light sedatives that can help to keep a child relaxed during their treatment.
Local anesthetics are administered during root canals, so the child will not feel pain during the process. All the child feels is a little bit of pressure as the dentist works. The patient should typically not feel any pain after the procedure.
Just as is the case with permanent teeth, baby teeth need a root canal when they are infected or damaged to a point where the pulp chamber is compromised. While extracting the tooth might seem more logical since baby teeth eventually fall off anyway, they serve an important purpose — holding space in the mouth for the permanent replacement.
Contact our Dumont clinic if you believe your child has an infected tooth. A pediatric root canal may bring their pain and discomfort to an end.
Request an appointment here: https://novapedsdentistry.com or call Nova Pediatric Dentistry at (201) 812-2952 for an appointment in our Dumont office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Wondering what constitutes a dental emergency in children? Read on to learn what merits a visit to an emergency pediatric dentist. An emergency pediatric dentist is a valuable resource for your child, similar to a hospital's urgent care center. Although it is recommended that patients see the dentist twice a year for examinations and cleanings,…
A pediatric dentist can help prevent tooth decay. Early dental checkups will enable the dentist to provide treatments that can make this possible. Your dentist can guide you and your child on how to keep teeth and gums healthy. Here are some effective tips on how to prevent childhood tooth decay straight from a pediatric…
Dental crowns for kids are a common solution for children with cavities, broken teeth, or other dental problems. They are useful in stopping additional deterioration to the tooth and restoring its function and appearance. As a parent, there are a few things you need to know before deciding whether to have dental crowns placed on…
Dental sealants for kids are an important part of a child's oral health care routine. They can help protect teeth from cavities and decay, but many parents are unaware of the benefits associated with sealants. This blog post will discuss the benefits of dental sealants for kids and why they should be part of your…
Wondering what constitutes a dental emergency in children? Read on to learn what merits a visit to an emergency pediatric dentist. An emergency pediatric dentist is a valuable resource for your child, similar to a hospital's urgent care center. Although it is recommended that patients see the dentist twice a year for examinations and cleanings,…
A pediatric dentist can help prevent tooth decay. Early dental checkups will enable the dentist to provide treatments that can make this possible. Your dentist can guide you and your child on how to keep teeth and gums healthy. Here are some effective tips on how to prevent childhood tooth decay straight from a pediatric…