While a root canal can seem like a scary procedure, it’s not as intense as you may be imagining. This is especially true as a parent if you hear your child needs this treatment. When it comes to performing it in baby teeth, it’s referred to as pulp therapy. Thankfully, it’s a common and gentle service that helps your loved one achieve a problem-free smile once again. Here’s all you need to know about this service to put you at ease.
So, What Is Pulp Therapy?
In short, this treatment is designed to remove the damaged inner pulp of a baby tooth, which is a soft tissue containing blood vessels and nerves. The inside can become infected or inflamed for a couple of different reasons, such as trauma or deep decay. Your child’s dentist will be able to get rid of these parts, helping save the structure instead of calling for an extraction.
Why Is It Important to Save a Baby Tooth?
You may think about pulling the baby tooth instead, as they are eventually going to fall out, but this isn’t the best idea! While they are temporary, they serve a crucial role in your child’s smile, such as:
- Holding space for adult teeth.
- Helping your loved one speak and chew.
- Aid in bite alignment and jaw development, which can be affected by early loss.
Instead, by saving the structure, the natural tooth can fall out on its own and help your child avoid needing extensive work in the future.
What Should I Expect During My Child’s Pulp Therapy?
Pulp therapy procedures are broken down into two different terms; both serve the same purpose, but they tell a bit more about what you can expect:
- A pulpotomy is the removal of the affected pulp that’s in the main part of the tooth. This leaves the healthy tissue that’s in the roots.
- A pulpectomy removes all the pulp tissue, including the roots, as the infection has spread into them.
Regardless of which is true for your loved one, their pediatric dentist will numb the area with a topical anesthetic, then a local one. Laughing gas may be used to help create an easier experience. They’ll gently get rid of the affected inner structures, seal them and put on a crown to restore both the look and function.
Is Pulp Therapy the Right Choice for My Child?
Pulp therapy may be what your child needs to ensure that their smile becomes problem-free. It’s a safe and effective treatment that helps them feel their best, relieving any discomfort they may feel because of the affected tooth. That way, their growing grins can stay happy and healthy.
About the Practice
At All About Kids Dentistry, your child benefits from a compassionate team of dentists who look after them and their tiny teeth. With some board-certified specialists on staff, you can trust your loved one gets the high-quality care they deserve. By offering pulp therapy, we can help save baby teeth from extraction and provide the relief kids deserve. If you have questions about this treatment, schedule an appointment or call our office at (847) 870-0475.