Root Canals for Kids: Essential Insights for Parents

When your child’s dentist says that he/she needs a root canal, you might feel a wave of anxiety. Understanding what a root canal is, and knowing why a child could need one and what the procedure entails will ease your concerns.

At the office of Abilene Endodontics, our skilled professionals are experts at diagnosing endodontic issues for patients of all ages. Their care and comfort are our top priorities. We take as much time as they need to address their every concern and explain their options in care.

What’s a pediatric root canal?

It treats an infected or damaged tooth. An endodontist removes the pulp—a soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. The pulp is susceptible to infection due to deep cavities, trauma or cracks in the tooth. Left untreated, an infection will spread and bring on pain, swelling, and potential damage to the neighboring teeth and bone structure.

Why a child would need one

Children’s dental issues can progress quickly due to thinner enamel and potentially less-developed oral hygiene habits. Root canals are often performed on their primary (baby) teeth to maintain the structure and function of their mouths until their permanent teeth are ready to erupt. Preserving baby teeth helps pave the way for the correct development and alignment of the adult teeth under them. 

The Procedure 

A child’s root canal is typically less complex than an adult’s. It often involves a pulpotomy, which removes infected pulp from the tooth’s crown, above the gum line. This procedure is often used when the infection hasn’t reached the root canals. The child’s comfort is a top priority. To ensure a pain-free experience, an endodontist uses local anesthesia, and in some cases, sedation. After removing the infected or damaged pulp, the endodontist cleans the tooth’s interior, disinfects it and seals it with a biocompatible material. A crown may be placed over the tooth to restore its strength and function.

When you require superior endodontic care, look no further than the office of Abilene Endodontics. We offer superior services for patients of all ages. For more information about how we can help you, please contact us today.