What to Expect When Your Child Needs a Root Canal

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Like adults, the pulp inside of a child’s tooth can become infected, inflamed, and cause discomfort. Tooth pulp is the tissue on the inside of each tooth that contains blood vessels and nerves. The tooth’s root is what helps it remain securely attached to the jawbone. Some of the leading reasons for a pediatric root canal in Victorville, CA include trauma to the mouth due to an accident, tooth decay, and a pocket of pus in the tooth known as an abscess.

Dentists Can Perform a Root Canal on Primary or Permanent Teeth

Since baby teeth fall out on their own, parents sometimes wonder if a pulpectomy is necessary. Pulpectomy is the official term for a pediatric root canal. Besides the significant pain their child could be feeling, parents need to consider the potential for premature loss of primary teeth that puts their child at a higher risk of developing speech or bite problems.

Understanding the Pediatric Root Canal Procedure

Dr. Bell will numb the area around the tooth receiving the root canal to ensure that the patient is comfortable before starting the procedure. The next step is to place small dental tools into the chamber of the tooth to remove the diseased pulp with the help of cleaning fluids.

Once Dr. Bell is certain that all the diseased pulp is out of the tooth, he inserts a liquid that kills germs. He then dries the tooth and places filling material inside of it. The last step is to place a crown on top of the tooth to prevent further infection.

Parents should not hesitate to contact the office of A. Paul S. Bell, DDS, Inc. in Victorville, CA if their child experiences oral pain. He will let them know after examining the child if a pulpectomy is necessary.

Root Canals and Children: Common Parent FAQs

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Even though root canal treatment is not all that common for children, occasionally, the procedure may be necessary. Even though knowing your child needs a root canal in Victorville can be a little scary, rest assured we will take the best care of your child throughout treatment at our office. Here is a look at some of the questions parents often have when their child needs endodontic treatment.

How do you know if your child needs a root canal?

When a child needs a root canal, they will usually present with certain symptoms, such as:

  • Swollen gums or gums that seem severely inflamed
  • Toothache
  • Sensitivity to foods that are hot or cold
  • Darkened gum tissue

In addition, a child may need a root canal if they have sustained some level of tooth trauma. For example, if you see that a tooth is broken or cracked, you should seek the help of a pediatric endodontist.

Are root canals safe for children?

Root canals are just as safe for children as they are for adults. In fact, performing a root canal on an ailing tooth can be beneficial for your child’s health, especially if the tooth is infected.

Will your child be in pain during the procedure?

Before a root canal is performed, the dentist will give the child a local anesthetic. Some children may need mild anesthesia during the procedure with laughing gas (nitrous oxide) to keep them comfortable and calm.

Talk to a Pediatric Dentist in Victorville, CA

In the event your child has an ailing tooth, you will definitely want to do whatever you can to fix the issue and protect their future smile. If you suspect your child needs a root canal, reach out to us at the office of Paul S. Bell, DDS, a pediatric dentist in Victorville, CA.

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