Key Things To Know about a Pediatric Root Canal

Though it can sound intimidating, a pediatric root canal is a relatively simple procedure. Your child’s dentist may recommend it if a tooth has become infected due to damage or decay. The following is a closer look at this procedure and some key things parents should know.

What is a pediatric root canal?

Cavities are common in children, and sometimes, they progress to the point where they infect the pulp at the center of the tooth, causing pain and inflammation and putting the child at risk for spreading infection and tooth loss. A pediatric root canal is an endodontic procedure performed on primary or baby teeth that have become infected like this. The dentist either removes infected pulp from the crown of the tooth (pulpotomy) or from the crown and root canals (pulpectomy), fills and restores the tooth.

Purpose of a pediatric root canal

Even though baby teeth eventually fall out and are replaced by adult teeth, they are still important to the child’s oral health future. Premature loss of baby teeth can not only impact how a child eats and speaks but also disrupt the eruption and alignment of the adult smile. That is why it is important to preserve baby teeth until it is naturally time for them to fall out. This is a key goal of a pediatric root canal.

Basic steps of the procedure

This procedure is performed under local anesthesia to remove infection and restore the tooth. A pediatric root canal starts by numbing the treatment area so the child will not feel pain during the procedure. Then, the dentist uses special tools designed for working with children’s teeth to remove the infected pulp. Next, the tooth is disinfected and filled, usually with a biocompatible material. The dentist will restore the tooth with a dental filling and, possibly, a dental crown.

Getting your child ready

Parents must know that a pediatric root canal involves little to no discomfort. Parents can prepare their children by explaining that the dentist will perform a simple procedure to relieve their toothache and keep their teeth and mouth healthy. If parents remain calm and keep the explanation fairly simple, their child should stay calm. Allow the child to bring a toy, book, or game to the appointment as a distraction. Parents can ask the dentist about possible sedation options if the child is especially anxious.

Aftercare instructions

The recovery period is fairly short; most children can return to school the following day. However, parents should tell their child’s teacher they had the procedure. The dentist will send parents and children home with aftercare instructions that can differ depending on the child; these instructions will include information on side effects and complications to watch for.

In general, children should not chew until the anesthetic has worn off, and chewing on the tooth that had the procedure should be avoided. Children should rest for the remainder of the day after the procedure and be careful with oral hygiene around the treated area. Swelling and pain should be minimal and well managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.