When your child needs a root canal conducted on one or more of their teeth, you need to get them in to see a dentist as soon as possible. A root canal might also seem frightening to a parent or child, which is also why it’s important to find a dentist that specializes in pediatric care.
Luckily, Rio Dental & Orthodontics near Farmers Branch has been conducting kids’ root canals for years and knows exactly how to care for a younger patient during this serious treatment.
What Dental Problems Require A Root Canal?
Root canals need to happen for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common include
- A seriously decayed tooth where a hole is present down to the root
- A cracked or split tooth
- A cavity that has been left untreated
- An infection of the tooth and surrounding gums
Because kids are quite vulnerable to infections and tooth decay, a root canal might be necessary if one of these problems goes untreated for some time.
What Does A Kid’s Root Canal Treatment Look Like?
A kid’s root canal procedure looks quite similar to one that would be performed on adult teeth. Local anesthesia is applied around the affected tooth first followed by a dental dam to prevent the mouth from closing during the procedure.
The dentist will then access the hole in your tooth where the infected pulp is present. Once this pulp is removed, the dentist will then shape and fill the canals before sealing off your tooth. Depending on the amount of pulp that needs to be removed, a dental crown, bridge, or other restorative material will be placed to complete this treatment.
The major difference between an adult and child’s root canal treatment will be the amount of care presented throughout. Our pediatric dentists are specially trained to ensure your child feels comfortable and safe while their root canal is being performed.
Root Canal Recovery For Your Child’s Tooth
It’s completely normal to experience pain and discomfort after a root canal. Most children can return to school or normal activities following their procedure, even though their mouth will be numb for about 2 to 4 hours after their appointment.
We highly recommend not eating during this time, so your child doesn’t accidentally bite their lip, tongue, or cheeks. If they’re still experiencing some soreness, pain, or discomfort, you might be able to give them over-the-counter pain medication, but please consult with your child’s doctor before doing so.
Parents should also keep an eye on their child’s root canal site for signs of infection. If pain persists and your child experiences swelling around the treated tooth, please contact our dental practice immediately so we can treat them.
Rio Dental – Pediatric Dentistry
If you’re looking for an empathetic pediatric dentist that specializes in child and baby root canals, look no further than Rio Dental & Orthodontics for help. Our dentists are always ready to help your child achieve their best and healthiest smile.
Regardless of whether your child has baby teeth or permanent teeth, our team of specialists will be able to quickly assess and offer treatment options for your child’s dental problems, which could include recommending a root canal.
To have your child’s teeth assessed for a root canal, schedule online or contact our office near Farmers Branch now.
