Did you know that the health of your child’s primary teeth can impact their adult teeth? That’s why our team at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry spares no effort to save a damaged baby tooth. One of the ways we do that is by offering root canal treatments for kids. The relatively simple procedure will preserve a compromised tooth until it is ready to fall out naturally. 

Why Would a Child Need a Root Canal Treatment? 

The inner core of every tooth has an area called the pulp chamber, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. Deep decay, trauma, or a chipped or fractured tooth can cause tooth pulp inflammation or damage. Tooth pulp damage can only be repaired with the help of a baby root canal, also known as nerve treatment or pulp therapy. 

Saving your child’s baby teeth is always our topmost priority. Even though they will eventually fall out, baby teeth maintain the space the adult teeth need to come in the correct alignment. Losing a baby tooth too early can lead to the remaining teeth shifting toward the gap, resulting in crooked permanent teeth and problems with the bite. That can translate to the need for orthodontic treatment in the future. 

What Are the Signs Your Child Needs a Root Canal Treatment?

Warning signs of tooth pulp damage requiring a root canal treatment include persistent pain, sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, tooth discoloration, gum tenderness or swelling, a pimple-like bump on the gums indicating an abscess, and swelling of the cheek, neck, or jaw.

If your child shows any of these symptoms, contact Jet Set Smiles right away. Dr. Patel may recommend a root canal treatment to relieve your child’s discomfort and save the affected tooth. Our experienced pediatric dentist and kid-friendly team will ensure your child has the best possible care. 

What Happens During a Baby Root Canal Treatment?

The most common baby root canal treatments are known as pulpotomy and pulpectomy, depending on the extent of damage. After treatment, we will place a pediatric dental crown to strengthen the treated tooth and restore its form and function. 

• Pulpotomy: Your child will require a pulpotomy if the tooth’s root is healthy and the damage is limited to the tip. The procedure involves removing the affected tip and filling the space with a protective medicated material to soothe the root and prevent further infection. 
• Pulpectomy: If the entire pulp, including the root, is affected, your child may require a pulpectomy. The procedure involves removing the tooth pulp tissue, cleaning the root canals, and filling the space with an inert material that’s reabsorbed when the baby tooth falls out naturally. 

How We Help Your Child Relax During Treatment

Before treatment, we will numb the area with a local anesthetic for your child’s comfort. We may also recommend dental sedation to help your little one relax in the dentist’s chair. We are committed to ensuring your child is safe and comfortable throughout any treatment. 

Baby Root Canal Treatments Near Me in Phoenix, AZ

Dr. Patel and our kid-friendly team at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry are dedicated to ensuring our young patients maintain a lifetime of healthy smiles. If your child requires a baby root canal treatment, you can always count on our team for exceptional, gentle care. We invite you to call 480-284-5076 to schedule your appointment today.