ROOT CANALS

ROOT CANALS

Smile Street Pediatric Dentistry is here for your smile!

When you’re trying to explain to your child, especially a young child, that they require severe dental help, or if you’re attempting to explain why their jaw hurts, it is easier to say that the dentist will make it all feel better. The truth about a root canal, even for children, is that a procedure needs to be done to remove the diseased pulp tissue that has been taking up space in your child’s mouth.

At Smile Street Dentistry, our main priority is your child’s long-term health and well-being. Our entire staff is trained to make your child feel safe and help them enjoy their time with us, even if it is for a root canal. Your child is in good hands. With our pediatric team ready to act, you and your child can relax.

HOW DO YOU PREPARE YOUR CHILD?

When you come in for the appointment before your child’s root canal, your dentist will inform you about the proper pre and post-procedures. Your child will feel some anxiety over the fact; however, it is okay for you to help your child understand that this will prevent further, prolonged, or intensified pain. Some anesthesia or number will be provided for your child. It is important that your child not be surprised by any of the steps that will be taken when they arrive, so after the dentist reviews the steps, double-check with your child to ensure they understood everything explained to them. It is normal to feel apprehensive about any procedure, and it is exceptionally standard when you are a child unsure about the steps taken to remove any discomfort or pain they may be feeling.

DURING & AFTER

What should you and your child expect?

DURING ROOT CANAL

Your child's dentist will insert the necessary tools into the tooth's root canal to remove any pulp causing pain, meaning any infected tissue. Once the root canal has been thoroughly checked and cleaned with germ-killing tooth cleaners, the canal will be dried, and a filling will be put inside your child's tooth root. A temporary (or permanent for older children) crown will be applied to cover the child's tooth. If anything, remind your child they will not feel anything during the procedure.

AFTER ROOT CANAL

Depending on the child’s overall pain tolerance, there will be mild to painful discomfort. The good news is that it is entirely normal and expected, even for adult patients. The dentist will prescribe pain medication or will be able to recommend over-the-counter pain relievers. It is important to ask for information about food and drink post root canal, but it is even more important to voice any hesitation or confusion on the instructions given. If you aren’t sure, ask for special instructions on caring for your child’s root canal or request, if it is temporary, how long it will be there.

HOW TO ATTEMPT PREVENTION BEFORE THE PROCEDURE!

Stop the problem before it starts

There is a common misconception that because young children have more teeth to lose and grow, their teeth don’t need to be brushed or taken care of thoroughly, but that is not the case. The best approach to any medical condition is to try to prevent the issue before it happens, which goes for your child’s teeth. A diet high in processed sugars, poor cleanings, and rare dental appointments can be the leading cause of a necessary dental procedure at an early age.

Maintaining your children’s teeth healthy with proper hygiene practices and regular dental visits is important!