Root Canals for Baby Teeth: Protecting Your Child’s Smile
Why It’s Needed :
- Deep cavities or trauma can expose the nerve, causing pain, swelling, or abscesses.
- Saving the tooth prevents misalignment, speech delays, and damage to developing adult teeth.
Procedure Steps :
- Numbing :
Local anesthesia ensures a pain-free experience; sedation is optional for anxious children. - Pulp Removal :
Tiny tools remove infected/damaged pulp from the crown, leaving healthy root tissue intact. - Disinfection :
The area is cleaned to eliminate bacteria and prevent reinfection. - Medication & Sealing :
A healing agent (e.g., formocresol) is applied, followed by a stainless steel crown to protect the tooth.
Aftercare Tips :
- Stick to soft foods for 24 hours.
- Use children’s ibuprofen for discomfort.
- Maintain oral hygiene to avoid recurrent decay.
Benefits :
- Prevents Infection Spread : Stops bacteria from reaching permanent teeth.
- Preserves Function : Maintains chewing, speech, and jaw alignment.
- Quick Recovery : Most children resume normal activities the next day.