Root Canal Treatment: How It Works for Kids in California

Root canal treatment for kids might feel overwhelming for you as a parent to consider. Just the idea of your child undergoing such a procedure can bring up concerns about its importance, safety, and potential discomfort. However, delving into the details of root canal therapy in pediatric dentistry can help ease many of these worries and empower you to make informed decisions. In this blog post, our team at Whittier Premier Dental guides you through the essentials of root canal treatment for children, explaining why it is sometimes necessary, what the procedure involves, and how you can support your child every step of the way.

The Importance of Saving Baby Teeth

Did you know that baby teeth (primary teeth) are susceptible to infection just like permanent adult teeth?  This is why It is crucial to maintain good oral hygiene for your child's teeth. Here we want to explore the significance of preserving baby teeth and the reasons why it is so important. 

Baby teeth eventually fall out, but their purpose for them to remain there until they naturally exfoliate is very important. Baby teeth serve as placeholders for adult teeth, guiding them into their proper positions as they grow in. By maintaining the integrity of baby teeth, we help ensure that adult teeth come in straight and aligned, reducing the need for orthodontic treatment later on. Furthermore, baby teeth play a crucial role in a child's speech development, aiding in proper pronunciation and articulation. Keeping baby teeth healthy also promotes good oral hygiene habits from a young age, setting the foundation for a lifetime of dental wellness. Remember, while baby teeth may be temporary, their impact on oral health and overall well-being is long-lasting. 

Additionally, if your child requires a root canal, we will cover the available treatment options to ensure your child feels calm and comfortable during their dental visit with us at Whittier Premier Dental in Whittier, CA.  

Why You Should Preserve Baby Teeth

• They assist in guiding permanent teeth into their correct positions. 
• Baby teeth contribute to the proper development and alignment of permanent teeth. 
• They play a role in speech development and preventing bite issues. 

Symptoms and Signs Your Child May Need a Root Canal 

Here is a list of symptoms and signs that may indicate that your child will need a root canal: 

• persistent pain/sensitivity tooth discoloration 
• tooth mobility 
• swollen gums/white bump on the side of gums (abscess) 
• pain with eating 
• pain with touch 
• chipped or cracked tooth 

Reasons Why Your Child Might Need a Root Canal in 2024

It may sound daunting, but root canal treatment on a baby tooth (pulpectomy) is a common dental procedure that can help save a child's tooth and alleviate pain. While the thought of a root canal may be intimidating, advances in technology and techniques have made the procedure more efficient and comfortable. 

There are various reasons why a child may require a root canal procedure: 

• Severe pulpal nerve damage or infection resulting from cavities or injury can necessitate a root canal treatment for a primary tooth. 
• If extensive tooth decay or injury penetrates the inner pulp, causing infection and discomfort, a root canal may be needed. 
• Trauma to the tooth, like a sports injury or accident, can also trigger the need for a root canal. 
• Genetic factors or developmental issues may occasionally lead to the necessity of this treatment. 

It is important to seek advice from our dentists at Whittier Premier Dental who specialize in treating children if you suspect your child may need a root canal. They are trained to provide gentle care and ensure a positive experience for our young patients. By addressing the issue promptly, a root canal on primary teeth can help maintain your child's oral health and preserve their natural smile for years to come. 

Dental Sedation or Anesthesia, which is Right for Your Child? 

When determining which procedure is right for your child, it is important to acknowledge that each child has unique needs, and finding the most suitable procedure method for them is essential to ensure a safe and effective outcome. Before suggesting a sedation method, the dentist will evaluate the child's medical history, the anticipated procedure duration, and the child's comfort level. Here is a breakdown of the different forms of sedation available for your child: 

NITROUS OXIDE

This is a gentle sedative and the least intrusive option. This is often referred to as ”laughing gas”.  Children inhale it along with some oxygen through a mask. While they usually don't fall asleep, they tend to become a lot more relaxed. 

MILD SEDATION

This is a type of medication. This helps keep the child calm and awake, allowing them to follow instructions from our pediatric dentist. After the procedure, the patient might not recall details of the dental visit. 

MODERATE SEDATION

This is also a type of medication. Children under moderate sedation are drowsier, but they can generally cooperate with our pediatric dentist’s instructions.  The child breathes independently and usually wakes up easily. Most patients do not retain memories of the procedure. 

DEEP SEDATION

This method involves using intravenous (IV) medications to help your child remain asleep during the procedure. Although your child may still exhibit slight movements and occasional sounds, they might have difficulty breathing independently. It's crucial to have an additional qualified professional, like an anesthesiologist, present. This professional will monitor your child's vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels throughout the procedure and until your child wakes up. They will also determine when your child is ready to be discharged. 

GENERAL ANESTHESIA

With general anesthesia, your child will be completely unconscious and free of pain. Trained anesthesia specialists will administer medications and oversee your child while our pediatric dentist carries out the root canal. General anesthesia can be administered in a specially equipped dental practice or a hospital. 

Our dentists at Whittier Premier Dental are highly trained and will ensure your child's safety and comfort during their root canal treatment process, ensuring they are on the path to excellent oral health. 

REACH OUT TO US AT WHITTIER PREMIER DENTAL, WE ARE HERE FOR YOU

When your child embarks on a dental journey with our dentists we will explore a range of treatment options together to select the most suitable course of action for your child. We will engage in meaningful discussions to address any questions, ensuring your comfort and readiness. Our objective is to provide comprehensive information and develop a tailored strategy that is specific to your child's dental health needs. 

Should you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to us. Our dentists and our entire team at Whittier Premier Dental in Whittier, CA are dedicated to ensuring a positive and personalized experience for your child's oral health journey.