Everything to Know about Root Canals for Kids

While the prospect of having a root canal can feel daunting for many people, it’s an important procedure that can save a tooth and provide lasting relief. But can kids need root canals, too? Though there are many scenarios where an adult may need this type of treatment, children need the procedure more often than you may realize. Here’s what you should know about this treatment for kids and what to expect if your child may need one.

Understanding Root Canals

A root canal is a straightforward procedure that is typically used to save a tooth and avoid extraction by removing infected or damaged pulp from within the tooth. This soft interior tissue can be highly vulnerable when exposed to decay or damage, so removing it and filling the tooth can provide pain relief and lasting protection. In essence, root canals prevent the spread of infection to other teeth or tissue. In most cases, the only alternative is to extract the tooth, which brings along its own long-term concerns as well as potentially costly tooth replacement.

Children may require a root canal if a tooth becomes seriously decayed due to untreated cavities. Over time, cavities can eventually reach the point where they expose sensitive pulp tissue inside the tooth to harmful bacteria. This can happen relatively quickly in children’s baby teeth, as they have thinner enamel that cavities can work through faster.

When do kids need root canals?

There are many potential reasons why a root canal might be necessary for your child. Deep cavities are among the most common; however, they aren’t the only situations where a root canal may be beneficial.

Dental injury also often requires a root canal to save the tooth. Any chips or cracks that are deep enough to expose pulp tissue can mean a high risk of infection. Your child might also have severe toothaches that indicate underlying issues in the pulp. If your child reports any tooth pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure, it’s crucial to reach out to your dentist as soon as possible. Increased tooth sensitivity is another potential sign your child might need this type of treatment. Darkening of the tooth can indicate pulp damage or infection and should be addressed promptly.

The Root Canal Procedure for Kids

The root canal process typically starts with local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth, although other sedation options are available. Using special tools, the dentist will then create a small hole in the tooth to remove the infected pulp, and the interior of the tooth will be cleaned, disinfected, and filled. 

In many cases, a crown will be used to cover the top of the tooth and provide lasting protection. Sometimes, though, depending on the size of the hole required and the state of the tooth, a filling can be effective in protecting the tooth.

Unlike root canals for adults, a root canal on baby teeth is often called a pulpotomy and only removes a portion of the pulp. The baby type of treatment is a more straightforward procedure with a reduced recovery time that still provides sufficient protection to avoid infection until the natural loss of the baby tooth.

Benefits of Root Canals for Children

A root canal preserves the natural tooth, which is essential for both adults and children. However, in children, it can be even more vital to support proper development. Avoiding early tooth loss maintains the proper spacing for adult teeth to come in correctly. When a baby tooth is lost early, the adult tooth still won’t come in until the appropriate time, potentially leaving a gap for years that can cause other teeth to shift, leading to potential orthodontic treatment in the future.

Preserving natural teeth also supports proper speech and eating habits, and your child will be able to enjoy a full smile, helping them maintain confidence. Additionally, your child’s root canal can prevent a variety of serious dental issues, like infection and painful tooth abscesses.

Preparing Your Child for a Root Canal

Preparing your child for their treatment can ensure things go smoothly. One way you can do this is by explaining the procedure in simple terms they can understand and encouraging them to ask questions. Make sure to explain local anesthesia to your child, letting them know that they’ll feel numb and won’t have any pain. After the treatment, mild discomfort is common for a few days, but it should fade quickly. If needed, you can ask your dentist about suitable options for pain relief.

Where can I find a gentle pediatric dentist office near me?

If your child has a case of serious tooth decay, a root canal for kids could be the best course of action to provide relief and protect their long-term health. You can find out whether this type of treatment is right for your child by visiting a pediatric dentist.

At Spinnaker Pediatric Dentistry, our expert team provides root canal treatment, pulp therapy, and other essential dental treatments in Salem, OR, with a gentle touch. Book your child’s appointment today to find out more!