Root Canal

A cavity that involves the nerve (pulp) of the tooth may cause a child to experience intense pain. Although the pain may actually subside for a period of time using ibuprofen or antibiotics, it will return unless the tooth is properly treated. When the nerve of the tooth is infected, it must be treated to restore the child to good dental health.

A pediatric root canal procedure is referred to as a "pulpotomy". The purpose of root canal treatment is to maintain the vitality of the affected tooth so that the tooth will not be lost early. Early loss of posterior (back) primary teeth may cause future problems with the eruption of permanent teeth. Therefore, it is best to avoid early loss of primary molars by properly treating the nerve of infected teeth with a "pulpotomy". Dental caries (cavities) and traumatic injury are the main reasons for a tooth to require pulp therapy. The "pulpotomy" root canal procedure removes the infected pulp tissue within the crown of the tooth. A medication is placed to calm the nerve of the tooth and prevent bacterial growth. The pulpotomy is followed with a final restoration such as a composite crown or stainless steel crown.

After the "pulpotomy" (root canal procedure) is complete, your child should feel much better. We expect all pain to subside and for your child to enjoy all of their regular activities.

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