Baby root canals aren't the same as adult root canals. There are two kinds of baby root canals, the pulpectomy and the pulpotomy.
The pulpotomy baby root canal only removes the nerves and blood supply in the center of the tooth, while the pulpectomy removes the nerves and blood supply from the roots of the tooth as well.
A pulpectomy is much more involved and takes longer to do. Both procedures are safe for kids and can be done to avoid removing a damaged or cavity riddled tooth.
Why Do Baby Root Canals?
Many parents wonder why performing a baby root canal on a tooth that is going to fall out is even necessary. Baby root canals are done when a tooth will not be ready to fall out for several years, as is often the case with molars. Children who get cavities early, such as at three or four years of age, will also need those baby teeth for several years before they are ready to be replaced by permanent teeth.
If a baby tooth is removed before its time, the surrounding teeth could shift positions, which could lead to dental carries a crooked smile and the possible need for orthodontic correction.
If a cavity in a tooth reaches the middle of it, the cavity could grow larger, or an infected abscess could occur. This is due to bacteria feeding on it. Pulpotomies or pulpectomies remove the bacteria's food source, thereby stopping the spread of the infection.
Infections in the teeth and gums can develop into very serious medical conditions and should always be treated promptly. Without proper treatment, your child could suffer from a very serious infection where bacteria from an abscessed tooth travels to the bloodstream and other parts of the body, including the brain in some cases. Baby root canals help put a stop to the infection before it becomes a problem.
Will a Baby Root Canal Hurt My Child?
Most likely unless the child has an abscessed tooth or extreme sensitivity, he or she probably will not feel much discomfort during the procedure. Before beginning the procedure, the pediatric dentist will numb the area. After that numbing medicine wears off, pediatric Advil or Tylenol may be given to relieve some of the child's discomfort.
Baby root canals are sometimes necessary to help kids maintain a healthy mouth and a healthy body. There's little to no discomfort with the procedure, and these procedures are considered to be safe for children. If you have concerns about your child getting a baby root canal, talk to your pediatric dentist about your concerns before your child’s appointment.
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