Yes, a root canal can be done on kids, too. This therapy is not solely for adults since kids’ teeth can get damaged or infected, too. Parents need to understand why this procedure is vital to save the kids’ teeth. A pediatric dentist can explain the procedure and why it is better than a tooth extraction.
A root canal is a surgical procedure that removes the diseased pulp from the kid’s tooth. The pulp is the most important part of the tooth, so the dying tissue from deep inside needs to be removed. The process will stop and prevent further infection. That tooth pulp also contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue.
What causes babies to need a root canal? Tooth decay is the main reason for a root canal. When bacteria get inside the mouth, they can also get through gaps and cracks in the teeth and settle into the pulp. The bacteria damage the inside of the tooth, so the root canal will pull the pulp out to save the tooth.
Parents are worried about their kids undergoing a root canal. In fact, many of them would rather let their kids lose teeth prematurely than undergo a root canal. After all, permanent teeth would grow in the same spots, right? The problem is when a baby tooth falls out because of bacteria, infection, and pus, it might lead to developmental issues, such as:
Of course, parents will have a more challenging time preparing kids for a root canal. The common belief is that root canals are painful. Tell the kids that the pediatric dentist will give them medicine for the pain. Once the kids are sure they will not be in pain, they will be more open to the procedure, and parents will not have to worry.
Depending on the kids' age, the dentist will do an X-ray. The results of the X-ray will give the dentists an idea of where the infected tooth is located. The dentists will also determine the size and shape of the root canal. Normally, the root canal procedure will last for an hour, but that depends on the severity of the problem.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Pediatric Dentist in Richmond, TX
Parents need to help kids avoid root canals in the future. Proper dental hygiene begins at home. You should teach them to brush properly, floss every day, and use mouthwash. Good eating habits such as avoiding hard candies and sweets and staying away from acidic food will also help.
Request an appointment or call Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental at 832-579-0960 for an appointment in our Richmond office.
Visiting a pediatric dentistry office with your child ensures his or her future relationship with oral hygiene and dentists, in general. Whenever your child suffers from oral injuries, consider making an appointment with your pediatric dentist to uncover any underlying problems. For instance, injuries to the tongue and teeth could indicate a deeper jaw or…
Fluoridated water is part of pediatric dentistry. It is a convenient and easy way to strengthen and protect teeth at an early age. Many areas have fluoridated water, which is a definite advantage. If you want to know why a dentist will likely recommend fluoridated water, here are the details.Studies show that almost all sources…
Nutrition is an important part of pediatric dentistry. Having balanced amounts of vitamins and minerals can strengthen and protect the teeth. Proper nutrients also fuel dental function. If you want to know how important nutrition is for your child’s oral health, here are the details from a pediatric dentistry professional.Children are still developing. They need…
A healthy smile requires a lifetime of focusing on oral hygiene basics. Even if your…
Healthy teeth are a vital part of eating and enjoying food, but certain foods can…
When it comes to your child's oral hygiene basics, you probably think that changing the…
Dental sealants for kids are a great way to help prevent cavities and protect your…
Pediatric tooth extractions are a common procedure to promote better oral health for children.
A firm understanding of oral hygiene basics can prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and general…
