How To Tell When Your Child Needs A Pediatric Root Canal
It can be scary when you hear the words “pediatric root canal” or “therapeutic pulpotomies” but it doesn’t need to frighten you or your child. It’s important to understand the difference between the two. It’s necessary to state that there is no such thing as baby root canals.
A pulpotomy is performed on baby teeth while only permanent teeth can receive a root canal. As stressful as it may seem, children’s root canals can relieve a myriad of problems that could become even more bothersome or dangerous if not treated.
That’s why it’s crucial to get to the root problems before dangers arise.
3 Signs That Your Child May Need A Pediatric Root Canal
Usually, within a routine dental visit, which the Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends your child get twice a year, your dentist may strongly recommend a pediatric root canal. There are several telltale signs that your child may need this type of procedure. It’s important to notice if your child has:
- A chipped or damaged tooth with an exposed nerve
- Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold food or drinks
- Toothaches or sharp pain in teeth
These are usually an indication that pulp damage is extensive. There will generally be a persistent, immediate, and throbbing pain present with any activity and will intensify as the damage worsens.
However, when the procedure is over, and the minor post-procedure discomfort subsides, the American Association of Endodontists agrees that a pediatric root canal, along with the proper filling or crown to protect the root canaled tooth, will demonstrate its advantages by giving your child:
- Efficient chewing
- Normal biting force and sensation
- Natural appearance
- Protection of other teeth from excessive wear or strain
If you feel like your child is experiencing anything out of the ordinary such as immense pain or trouble chewing, it’s definitely time to seek out an endodontist and ask about root canals for kids.
We have the one of the best dentists here to perform root canals! Dr. Simon Beylin, our root canal specialist, completed his specialty training in Endodontics at Harvard School of Dental Medicine. Working exhaustively with patients at Children’s Hospital of Boston, he had the distinct honor of being one of the very select endodontists that provided care for pediatric patients.
Above all, Dr. Beylin is remarkably gifted at making kids and parents feel comfortable about their treatment.
Your child deserves the best in care and compassion, especially when they’re distressed and in an immense amount of pain. Give us a call at 978-401-4892 to schedule an appointment for a pediatric root canal.
We want you and your child to get the proper care and treatment as fast as possible. After a visit with us, your child will be all smiles again!