Baby root canals often induce fear and anxiety in parents because of the reputation of the procedure. However, technology has come a long way in making the procedure straightforward and reliable. Additionally, baby root canals are only advised when absolutely necessary! Continue reading to find out more.
Below is a quick overview of how baby root canals can help prevent future problems with oral health. Parents should review this information when debating whether or not the procedure is something worth considering.
A baby root canal is quite similar to the adult procedure. However, the dentist performing it has to be extra careful and often needs further training because the nerves are so minuscule compared to those of adult procedures.
The dentist will numb the tooth and the entire area to avoid any potential discomfort. Then the decayed portions of the tooth will be removed, as well as the nerves and roots within the tooth's cavity. This is often done with a laser or dental drill. Next, the entire cavity of the tooth is cleaned out to ensure that nothing harmful gets left behind. To finish, a temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth and empty cavity.
Baby root canals are a last resort for dentists to recommend because they understand the anxiety and fear associated with the procedure. However, it would not be recommended if it were not the only way to save a tooth from completely dying.
Once a baby root canal is performed, the risk of the nerve or roots of the tooth becoming further infected is completely eliminated. During the procedure, the dentist removes both of these parts so that there is nothing at risk. Additionally, it eliminates any associated pain, which can be quite relieving for both the child and the parents.
Separately, after a baby root canal is performed, the tooth is capped off with a dental crown. This eliminates the potential that anything harmful could get into the cavity of the tooth, harming the gum tissue or the jawbone. While the process does involve a couple of steps, it is ultimately worth it due to its prevention of further damage.
Parents often wonder about the necessity of baby root canals on a baby tooth that will eventually fall out and be replaced by an adult tooth. While this may seem like a reasonable thought, there are actually a few reasons that the procedure can be necessary. If the baby tooth becomes so decayed that it falls out instead of being salvaged, it can cause spacing issues for the surrounding teeth while waiting for the adult tooth to erupt. Additionally, the space where the baby tooth once was is just exposed gum tissue. This can cause irritation or even infection in the area, both of which can lead to serious problems.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Baby Root Canals in Richmond, TX
Parents who still feel uneasy about a baby root canal can consult directly with a dental specialist. Any unanswered questions or concerns can be addressed appropriately, and an evaluation can be done to determine if there are any special precautions to take. To learn more or to get scheduled for an appointment, reach out today.
Request an appointment or call Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental at 832-579-0960 for an appointment in our Richmond office.
As parents, we like to think that we can help our kids learn what they need to know, but when it comes to proper oral hygiene habits, there is no one better qualified than a children’s dentist. If you do not already have one for your kids, it might be a good idea to find…
One of the most important things a pediatric dentist does is teach children's tooth care to children and their parents. Children should start seeing a dentist within six months of their first tooth eruption or by their first birthday. These visits should continue once every six months so dentists can catch oral health problems early…
Children have unique dental needs, and a kid-friendly dentist is trained in how to treat them. Keeping a child’s primary teeth and gums healthy ensures the optimal development of their permanent teeth. A pediatric dentist assists with all aspects of a child’s dental care, ensuring they develop healthy habits that carry into their teenage and…
As parents, we like to think that we can help our kids learn what they need to know, but when it comes to proper oral hygiene habits, there is no one better qualified than a children’s dentist. If you do not already have one for your kids, it might be a good idea to find…
One of the most important things a pediatric dentist does is teach children's tooth care to children and their parents. Children should start seeing a dentist within six months of their first tooth eruption or by their first birthday. These visits should continue once every six months so dentists can catch oral health problems early…