A root canal is a dental procedure that most people fear the most. Popular myths might have you believe that this is a wildly painful and excruciating procedure that should only be performed in the most extreme circumstances. In reality, root canals aren’t all that bad – and there are plenty of reasons why you may need to get one. If the roots and pulp of your teeth are infected, you may be a likely candidate for this fast-acting treatment. This can happen to you at any age. So can a child need a root canal?
Can a Child Need a Root Canal?
This begs the question, can a child need a root canal? Is it possible to perform a root canal on a child’s teeth? What are some of the best ways to prepare a child for a root canal in Glendora? Our pediatric dental experts can address your concerns and answer your questions about getting a root canal for your child.
More About Root Canals
In order to understand why your child may need a root canal, it is important to know exactly what the procedure entails and why someone might need one.
Root canals are necessary when the pulp of the tooth has become infected. The pulp is the soft tissue area at the bottom of the tooth near the roots. It is connected to the nerves and blood cells. If it becomes infected, it is too likely that the infection will spread through your bloodstream. A root canal procedure is needed to “deaden” the tooth by getting rid of the pulp, which both saves your tooth and prevents the spread of decay.
Causes of Tooth Decay in Children
Your child might need a root canal if there are signs of tooth decay. The signs of tooth decay in children are often similar to adults, with symptoms including:
- Dark brown, yellow, or black spots on the teeth
- Swollen gums
- Holes in the teeth
- Child complaining of pain or sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
If you suspect that your child may have tooth decay, you should bring them to the dentist’s office as quickly as possible. You may be able to avoid a root canal procedure by getting cavity fillings instead. The longer you wait, the more likely it will be that your child will need a root canal.
Preparing Your Child for a Root Canal
If worst comes to worst, the tooth decay has advanced into the pulp of the teeth, and your child will need a root canal to eliminate the risk of infection. It is a quick and pain-free procedure that your child will not feel while the dentist performs the treatment. Here are some things you can do to keep your child calm and aware:
- Have your child speak with the dentist about what to expect. The dentist will be able to provide preparation instructions along with information for you and your child.
- Tell your little one that they will not feel any pain during the procedure, as local anesthesia will numb the mouth.
- Your child will receive a crown after the procedure so the tooth will look as good as new.
- Medicine may help with any pain or swelling that may occur after the procedure.
While your child should feel fairly comfortable throughout the procedure, there may be some pain afterward as the numbing agent wears off. This is normal, and you can invest in some over-the-counter pain relievers to give your child relief as the swelling starts to go down.
Find the Best Dental Care for Your Child Today
Root canals are not fun, but they are fast, efficient, and pain-free. If your child has been dealing with untreated dental decay, they may need to go through a root canal treatment to eliminate all signs of infection. Learn more about your Glendora dental options by getting in touch with the experts at Glendora Family Dentistry today!
