Pediatric Dentistry: Are Root Canals for Kids Safe?
What is referred to as "Baby root canals" in Pediatric Dentistry? In pediatric dentistry, a "Baby root canal" is usually called a pulpotomy and they are different from adult root canals in that unlike adult root canals we are only removing the possibly infected coronal pulp tissue and not the radicular or root pulp tissue.
In some cases with a baby tooth that has an abscess or an infection down to the roots, we will complete a procedure called a pulpectomy which includes also removing the root or radicular pulp tissues.
Root canals Aka Pulpotomies or Pulpectomies
Below is a quick overview of pediatric root canals, including what they are and whether they are safe. This information can be useful to parents who feel anxious or uncomfortable about the procedure.
In pediatric dentistry, Dr. Somefun has a saying, “You treat the child and not the tooth”. Both procedures should only be done when we are sure of a predictable outcome with regards to the child accepting the treatment. We have advanced behavior techniques like nitrous, moderate sedation, or general anesthesia in children who are overly anxious and require treatment to save a tooth in conjunction with the procedures. Dr Somefun will be happy to discuss the different options with parents.
Steps to a Pulpotomy/Baby root canal in a Primary tooth
- Apply local anesthetic or a numbing agent to put the tooth to sleep
- Open up the tooth and clean the area of caries
- Remove the pulp tissue in the coronal or crown portion of the tooth
- Control the bleeding and apply a medicament for a couple of minutes
- Place a medicament that has bioactive and has healing properties over the coronal or crown portion of the tooth
- Place a definitive restoration such as a Silver crown over the tooth to prevent reinfection
- Take yearly x rays to monitor the tooth
Steps to a Pulpectomy/Baby root canal in a Primary tooth
- Apply local anesthetic or a numbing agent to put the tooth to sleep
- Open up the tooth and clean the area of caries
- Remove the pulp tissue both the coronal and radicular portion of the tooth ( crown and root)
- Clean the roots using our dental instruments
- Fill the entire root with a medicament that has bioactive and healing properties
- Place a definitive restoration such as a Silver crown over the tooth to prevent reinfection
- Take yearly x rays to monitor the tooth
Research has shown both pulpotomies and pulpectomies are safe and are good options in saving a baby tooth with very Large cavities. They are done in situations where a dental filling will likely fail and possible cause the loss of the tooth.
Find out more from a Pediatric dentist
Parents who want further information on pediatric root canals can reach out today. The dentist can address concerns or answer questions about the procedure and the safety of it. Additionally, preparation tips can be discussed, which can be helpful in calming parent's and children's nerves. Contact us today to learn more about the procedure or to schedule an appointment
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