A Root Canal Alternative For Little Smiles

Posted May 1, 2020

As part of our approach to emergency dentistry, we offer treatments to help children in the Dallas, TX, area with infected teeth. As an alternative to traditional root canal procedures, our pediatric dentist provides a pulpotomy. In today’s blog, we’re going to talk about this procedure, and how to prevent the onset of cavities and infection from home.

The Causes (and Dangers) of an Infected Tooth

Your child’s teeth, like your own, are composed of several layers. The outer most is the enamel, which protects the smile from injury and infection. Beneath the enamel, and making up most of the tooth structure, is the dentin, which is much more sensitive than enamel. At the center of the tooth sits the pulp, the nerve center that keeps the tooth functioning and healthy. An infection happens when bacteria reaches the inner pulp, usually via injury or an advanced case of tooth decay. Unless treated, this could lead to premature tooth loss and a higher risk of misalignment. Common warning signs include toothaches, pain when eating, swelling near the tooth, or a discharge from the tooth. If your child experience persistent pain, please let us know so we can schedule an emergency visit!

Pulpotomy

The treatment will begin with dental sedation, which helps ease anxiety in kids. We next numb the area around the infected tooth before beginning the treatment. The dentist will remove the infected portions of the pulp, and replace it with a medicated filling material. For many, we will then cap the tooth with a pre-made stainless steel or white restoration, which is designed to absorb daily pressures. In as little as one visit, we can restore your child’s tooth and put a stop to discomfort, allowing him or her to return to their normal daily routine without pain!

Keeping Smiles Safe from Home

Parents can help limit the risk of tooth decay and infection with daily care, which is especially important now as we can’t provide dental cleanings for the moment. Kids need to brush when they wake up and again before going to bed, with each session lasting about two minutes. Children should use an age-appropriate toothbrush and a rice-sized blot of fluoride toothpaste. If your child has teeth sitting side-by-side, then you should help them gently floss with a pick or length of floss tape. Try to cut back on sugary foods and drinks too! If you have any questions, then contact our team today.

Do You Have Questions About Pulpotomy?

Our team is still here to provide safe and effective emergency treatments for little smiles in our community. To learn more,  by calling Pediatric Dental Care at Casa Linda in Dallas, TX today at 214-321-4880. We proudly serve patients who live around Casa Linda and all surrounding Dallas communities.