Does Root Canal Therapy Help A Child’s Infected Tooth?

Posted April 28, 2021

When a cavity forms, a lifelike filling is placed in one visit to save the tooth and prevent worsening pain. But what if your child’s tooth becomes infected? Will they need a root canal procedure like an adult would? In today’s blog, your Dallas, TX, pediatric dentist talks about how we treat infections with a conservative alternative known as a pulpotomy.

The Dangers of an Infected Tooth

Each of your child’s teeth are composed of several layers. The outermost is the name, the protective layer that keeps them strong and prevents cavities and infection. Beneath the enamel is the dentin, which makes up most of the structure and is much more sensitive. Finally, at the center is the pulp, the bundle of living tissues that act as the nerve center, keeping the tooth functional. Basically, an infection means that harmful bacteria came into contact with the pulp, usually through an advanced cavity or an injury. Unless stated, this not only leads to worsening pain, but could cause premature tooth loss. When your child loses a baby tooth early, this could mean the onset of dental misalignment.

The Pulpotomy Process

When your child complains about pain when eating or a toothache, bring him or her to the office. We will make an accurate and precise diagnosis using advanced digital technology. If we uncover advanced decay or a dental infection, we will recommend a conservative alternative to a root anal known as a pulpotomy. Basically, we administer sedation to ensure your little one is comfortable and relaxed. We then open the tooth and remove the infected portions of the pulp instead of the entire thing. We add medicated filling material and then repair the tooth with a filling or crown. The process only takes one visit, and could help prevent tooth loss and worsening pain!

Protecting Smiles From Future Infections

What can be done to safeguard little smiles against issues like advanced tooth decay or an infected tooth? Well, start by making sure your little one brushes properly in the morning and at night using a fluoride toothpaste. Help him or her floss every evening too! Make time to attend checkups and cleanings every six months too, so we keep an eye out for the warning signs of cavities. If you have any questions about how we treat infected teeth to protect little smiles, then contact our team today!

Do You Have Questions About Children’s Dental Care?

Our team wants to make sure your child continues to enjoy optimal oral health. To learn about treating cases of dental infection, then  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.