Root Canals
What are Root Canals?
A root canal involves removing the pulp inside an otherwise infected or damaged tooth. When a tooth becomes seriously decayed or has cracked and broken, the inner pulp might have been effected. If this occurs, it will need to be removed to prevent instances of pain and severe sensitivity. Root canals are incredibly common procedures, and many children will need them in order to eliminate toothache and pain.
Why might Root Canals be needed?
The most common reason for why many kids need to have root canals performed is because decay was able to reach the inside of the tooth. Once this occurs, your child will experience toothache, pain and sensitivity to both hot and cold liquids. Another reason for needing a root canal is because a tooth has cracked, broken or fractured enough to expose that inner pulp. In either case, the pulp has to be removed in order to prevent further problems.
Who is a candidate for Root Canals?
To determine if your child needs a root canal, we will perform an exam as well as take x-rays. If they need to have the procedure done, we recommend having it performed as soon as feasibly possible. This prevents further problems to their oral and dental health as well as the pain that goes along with it. We help to make the root canal process as quick, easy and comfortable as possible for your child.
What happens during the Root Canal process?
We first administer a sedative or anesthetic according to their needs. A rubber dental dam is placed over the affected tooth to keep it completely isolated from the rest of the mouth. The decay is removed to allow us to get to the inside of the tooth itself. The pulp is taken out and the canals of the roots are scraped clean of any remaining pulp matter. The roots are then filled with a specialty medicated material and the tooth is filled with composite resin. The dental dam is removed and your child will be ready to leave the office with special aftercare instructions.
If you think your child needs a root canal, call us today to schedule an appointment for them to come in.