Pediatric Root Canal
in Sacramento, CA

Pediatric Root Canal at Bubbles Dental
A root canal is a dental procedure aimed at treating damaged or infected teeth while preserving the tooth and relieving discomfort. The process involves removing the affected pulp, which is the soft tissue located inside the tooth. This pulp may become infected due to deep cavities, traumatic injuries, or other dental issues.
During the root canal procedure, the dentist carefully removes the infected or damaged pulp, thoroughly cleans the inside of the tooth to remove any debris or bacteria, and then seals it to prevent further infection. This sealing process helps maintain the structural integrity of the tooth and prevents bacteria from re-entering the tooth.
Root canals are typically recommended for adult teeth that have experienced severe damage or infection, as they provide a way to save the tooth without resorting to extraction. However, there are situations where children may also require a root canal. For example, if a child has a primary tooth with a significant cavity or if an infection has reached the pulp of the tooth, a root canal may be necessary to address the issue and preserve the tooth until the permanent tooth erupts.
Overall, root canals can effectively treat dental problems and maintain oral health in both adults and children by preserving natural teeth and avoiding extraction.
Are root canals for baby teeth necessary?
- Baby root canals, also called pulpotomies, might be necessary for saving infected or damaged baby teeth.
- Baby teeth are crucial for a child's oral health, aiding in speech, eating, and the alignment of permanent teeth.
- Severe decay or damage to baby teeth can lead to pain, infection, and impact the development of permanent teeth.
- A pulpotomy can save the tooth, relieve pain, and prevent infection spread, but not all cases require it.
- Consultation with a pediatric dentist is essential to determine the best treatment for the child's dental needs.
Is performing a root canal on a baby's tooth worthwhile?
- The decision to perform a root canal on a baby tooth depends on factors like the extent of damage or infection, the child’s age, and potential impact on oral health and development.
- In some cases, a root canal or pulpotomy may be necessary to save an infected or damaged baby tooth, preventing pain, infection, and complications, and preserving it until it's ready to be replaced.
- However, if a baby tooth is severely damaged or infected beyond repair, or if it's close to falling out naturally, extraction might be more suitable.
- The decision to perform a root canal or pulpotomy on a baby tooth should be made by a qualified pediatric dentist or endodontist, considering the child’s individual needs and circumstances.
How long does a baby root canal procedure usually last?
The duration of a baby root canal procedure can vary depending on factors such as the extent of damage or infection and the child’s cooperation during the treatment. Additionally, the dentist may need to conduct X-rays or other diagnostic tests before and during the procedure, which could prolong the process. Typically, the procedure can take anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes to complete.
Throughout the procedure, the dentist will remove the infected or damaged pulp tissue from the baby tooth and replace it with a specialized filling material. Subsequently, the dentist will apply a crown or filling over the tooth to safeguard it against future damage.
Is it common for children to undergo root canal treatment?
It's not unusual for children to require root canal treatment, especially if a tooth is damaged or infected. Although baby teeth will eventually fall out, they play a crucial role in a child's oral health and development, aiding in chewing, speech, and guiding the eruption of permanent teeth. Severe damage or infection in a baby tooth can lead to pain, infection, and complications that may affect permanent teeth.
In some cases, a child may also need a root canal on a permanent tooth if it's severely damaged or infected due to trauma or decay.
If your child is experiencing dental issues like oral pain or signs of infection, don't hesitate to bring them to Bubbles Dental for evaluation and treatment. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We're conveniently located at 6030 S Land Park Dr, Sacramento, CA 95822 and proudly serve clients in Sacramento, CA, Lemon Hill CA, Pocket CA, Meadowview CA, Greenhaven CA, Hollywood Park CA, and surrounding areas.