A baby root canal may sound scary, however, it is nothing to be afraid of. Modern-day dentistry has allowed for the evolution of gentler techniques and safer approaches, thus reducing the risk of complications and pain during the procedure.
Baby root canals, in particular, are done differently as they are performed in a pediatric dentistry setting, which focuses on a comforting approach to treatment. With all of that being said, it can be helpful for parents to understand when a baby root canal is actually needed. This gives them the opportunity to understand the process. Read on to learn more about baby root canals.
Outlined below are a few scenarios in which a baby root canal is needed. This information can be useful to parents who want more information on why their child needs a root canal.
Baby root canals are most commonly needed when children have severe cavities or infections in their teeth. Just like with traditional root canals, baby ones aim to remove the infected pulp within a tooth. When a tooth is so severely infected that it reaches the pulp, simpler approaches like fillings or crowns are not enough to salvage the tooth. Instead, a baby root canal is needed. The root canal removes the infected areas, disinfects the interior of the tooth, and reseals it to restore its function.
Pediatric dentists will also recommend a baby root canal when the child has undergone an injury or accident that puts a tooth at severe risk. A crack, chip, or break in a tooth can result in damage all the way down to the pulp of the tooth, which compromises the nerves. To address the damage, a baby root canal will be necessary. The pediatric dentist can remove any compromised pulp and clean out the interior to eliminate bacteria.
Because a baby root canal can cause discomfort, parents are often hesitant to move forward with this course of action, however, it is important to know that a pediatric dentist will only recommend the procedure when absolutely necessary.
Another important thing to know about baby root canals is that they are finished with dental crowns, just like with traditional root canals. However, with baby procedures, the pediatric dentist may not place a permanent crown, since the teeth will eventually fall out to be replaced by adult teeth. Instead, a composite resin baby crown may be placed to protect the tooth from future damage until it naturally falls out. If the child is near the age of baby-tooth loss then composite will likely be used; however, if the child is very young than a permanent crown may be placed.
Parents that are looking for even more information on baby root canal procedures can reach out to our office today. Pediatric dentists can answer questions and go over any concerns that may be causing anxiety in the parents.
Request an appointment here: https://pediatric-dental-arts.com or call Pediatric Dental Arts at (617) 924-1911 for an appointment in our Watertown office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Baby Root Canal in Watertown, MA.
A baby root canal allows the dentist to save the child’s tooth. That way, it can stay in place until it is ready to come out. This is important because the baby teeth have several functions. You might be wondering how a baby root canal is performed. Read on to learn more about this type…
A pediatric root canal is an endodontic treatment meant to remove bacteria and dying tissue from the tooth. The tooth's pulp is the most essential part of the tooth beneath the enamel. The pulp is living and includes nerves, connective tissue, and blood.Cavities can cause permanent damage to the teeth and cause holes for the…
A pulpotomy is performed on baby teeth and is one of the more highly recommended pediatric dental procedures for dealing with severe tooth decay that has led to an infected dental pulp in the root of the tooth. A pulpotomy is often necessary to save a decayed baby tooth (especially molars) from falling out early.Although…
A baby root canal is not a pleasant experience for children or for their parents, but it is sometimes necessary to ensure the tooth does not cause discomfort or fall out too early. There are many benefits a baby root canal can offer, and learning more about it is a great way to deal with…
A kid-friendly dentist turns dental visits into calm, positive experiences for children and parents.
Trauma can also cause a tooth to loosen or partially dislodge from its socket.
In these cases, a pediatric dentist may design a mouthguard specifically for overnight use.
Dental fillings for children play a crucial role in restoring teeth affected by cavities or…
Early detection and treatment can help prevent further damage and more complex procedures.
Infants can benefit from seeing a pediatric dentist when primary teeth begin to erupt.
