Baby Root Canal
Walnut Creek, CA
Inside every tooth is a space called the pulp chamber that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. If the tooth pulp becomes inflamed because of extensive decay or trauma, your child may need a baby root canal treatment. Our team at Creekside Kids Dentistry will do everything possible to provide a comfortable, stress-free experience!
Why Save a Damaged Baby Tooth?
Why save a damaged baby tooth when it will fall out eventually? Baby teeth matter. They help your little one chew and speak and act as placeholders, guiding the permanent teeth to erupt in their correct positions. If a baby tooth falls out prematurely due to deep decay or damage, the neighboring teeth may shift toward the gap, interfering with the adult teeth when they are ready to come in. That usually translates into tooth misalignment requiring orthodontic treatment down the road.
What Are Baby Root Canals?
Left untreated, inflamed tooth pulp can be a serious matter, often leading to tooth pain, infection, and even tooth loss. A baby root canal, sometimes called a pulpotomy, can help save the affected tooth and prevent further complications.
The pulpotomy procedure is similar to an adult root canal treatment. It involves removing the inflamed pulp in the tooth's crown to relieve the remaining healthy pulp and save the tooth from infection or decay. The roots of the tooth will remain intact, and the tooth will be able to continue growing.
After a baby root canal, we typically place a pediatric dental crown. That will help protect and preserve the treated tooth until it is time for it to fall out naturally.
How Do I Know If My Child Needs a Baby Root Canal?
Only a qualified dentist can determine whether a baby root canal procedure is needed. Bring your child to Creekside Kids Dentistry if your child experiences any of the following symptoms:
- Has persistent tooth pain
- Is sensitive to heat and cold
- Has swollen, tender gums
- Has a pimple-like bump on the gums
- Has a chipped or cracked tooth
- Has a discolored tooth
Healthy Habits for Long-Term Healthy Smiles
The best way to protect your child's smile and prevent the need for a baby root canal is to be proactive and maintain good oral hygiene. Encourage your child to brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush and an age-appropriate amount of fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day and floss daily. It is also important to keep up with your child's regular, twice-yearly dental exams and cleanings. Treating oral health problems as they develop will prevent the need for more invasive treatments down the road.
How We Help Our Patients Feel Right at Home
At Creekside Kids Dentistry, we strive to ensure every visit to our office is a happy, stress-free experience. Here are some ways we help our young patients feel right at home:
- Our kid-friendly team spares no effort to create a warm, happy atmosphere where even the most anxious patients feel safe, comfortable, and at ease.
- We use cutting-edge technology to provide our young patients with the best possible dental experience.
- We use visual aids and explain procedures in age-appropriate terms to help our young patients know what to expect.
- We always take the time to answer your child's questions and address their concerns.
- We use a variety of tools and techniques, including nitrous oxide sedation, to help our young patients relax in the dentist's chair.
Baby Root Canals Near Me in Walnut Creek, CA
At Creekside Kids Dentistry, we always recommend the most conservative treatment possible to restore your child's smile. If a baby root canal treatment is needed, we will make sure the process is as comfortable as possible. You can count on our team for compassionate, gentle care.
Call 925-465-1200 to schedule an appointment or book one online today!
Schedule Your Child's Appointment Today!
At Creekside Kid's Dentistry, we make it easy for you to schedule your child's appointment using our online scheduling system. We can't wait to see you!