When you think of a root canal, you probably associate the procedure with adults. In some cases, however, children can also benefit from a root canal. In this blog, the NYC pediatric dentists at Park View Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics explain what’s involved with a root canal for children and why this treatment might be recommended.
When is a root canal for children needed?
Even though baby teeth aren’t permanent, they can affect your child’s chewing and speech and have a long-term impact on his or her dental health. Each of these teeth holds a space open for an adult (permanent) tooth that will eventually emerge behind it. If a baby tooth is lost too early, other teeth shift to fill the gap, which can cause problems with the alignment of permanent teeth.
If your child’s tooth has a cavity that progresses into an infection, a root canal may be needed if the tooth’s inner pulp is too damaged to be saved. A root canal is needed to avoid more serious problems, such as pus that can build up and form an abscess that damages the bone around the tooth. This will cause pain as well as potential future damage.
What is a root canal for children? Is it different than one for adults?
A root canal may be needed when a cavity has progressed beyond the point where it can be filled and the area has become infected. It allows the dentist to remove the infected inner pulp, replace it with material that’s later absorbed into the body, and then protect the tooth.
The procedure is similar to how a root canal for adults is performed, but children may be more likely to be fearful of the procedure. A pediatric dentist will have more experience in performing a root canal for children and is also accustomed to putting them at ease in an environment that’s designed specifically for their comfort and treatment.
What’s involved with a root canal for children?
A digital X-ray is taken to enable the dentist to thoroughly evaluate the tooth. Anesthesia will be used, and all the pulp and the affected part of the nerve will be removed from the inside of the tooth. The dentist then cleans out the infection from the tooth. A crown may then be placed on the tooth in order to protect it.
Why Choose Park View Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontists?
At Park View Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we make children feel welcome and comfortable from the moment they walk in the door. Our office overlooks Central Park and has been created with children’s comfort and care as the top priorities. They’ll find plenty of child-friendly activities as well as a staff that enjoys interacting with them and putting them at ease.
Our pediatric dentists are specialists who have additional education and training in the care and treatment of children’s teeth, and our practice is dedicated to the practice of gentle dental care.
In addition, we offer sedation dentistry to help make children more comfortable during their procedure, especially if they’re fearful or have special needs. We provide single tooth anesthesia, the first local dental anesthetic system that’s controlled by a computer. It eliminates the need for an injection and only numbs the tooth, not the lip or face.
To get your child started on a lifetime of good dental health or to find out more about root canal for children, make an appointment today with the kid-friendly dentists at Park View Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics. Call (212) 879-6518 today or fill out the form on this page to request an appointment.