Root canals are a common dental procedure designed to address problems in the tooth's pulp, which can be caused by decay, injury, or disease. Though many associate root canals with adult dental care, children, especially those with their baby teeth, may also require this treatment.
The team at My Kidz Dentist in Phoenix, Arizona, offers the following to help you understand the differences between a baby root canal and an adult root canal.
Your child’s primary teeth, often called baby teeth, are not just smaller versions of adult teeth — they have unique characteristics and functions. They are essential in helping children chew food, develop proper speech, and maintain space for permanent teeth to grow correctly.
When decay or injury affects a baby tooth's pulp, the team at My Kidz Dentist may recommend a procedure similar to a root canal, known as a pulpotomy or pulpectomy, to preserve the tooth's integrity.
A pulpotomy, often referred to as a "baby root canal," involves removing the diseased pulp tissue within the crown portion of the tooth, above the gum line. Baby root canals are typically less complex than a full root canal because it doesn't involve treating the entire length of the tooth’s root. After removing the diseased pulp, the area is sterilized and sealed to prevent further infection.
In contrast, adult root canal therapy, or endodontic treatment, involves removing diseased or damaged pulp from both the crown and the root. An adult root canal is more intricate because of the complexity of adult teeth, which have longer roots and can have multiple root canals that must be cleaned and sealed.
The materials and techniques used in baby root canals also differ from those in adult procedures. Pediatric dentists like My Kidz Dentist often use resorbable materials to fill the space after a pulpotomy since the primary tooth will eventually fall out to make way for the permanent tooth. Using resorbable materials ensures that it won’t interfere with the natural exfoliation process.
For adults, the filling material is designed for permanent use, ensuring the strength and durability of the treated tooth over a long time. Adult root canals may also involve a crown to protect and restore the tooth's function and appearance after the root canal is complete.
Children may have heightened anxiety about dental procedures, and the compassionate team at My Kidz Dentist are specially trained to provide a comfortable and reassuring environment. Sedation options for children at the practice include nitrous oxide and oral sedation. The recovery from a baby root canal is typically swift, with most children resuming normal activities the same day.
Adults receiving root canal therapy might experience more discomfort post-procedure because of the invasiveness of the treatment. Recovery can vary, and adults may need to take a day off work and avoid certain foods for a short period.
Some may wonder why a root canal is necessary for a tooth that will eventually fall out. Preserving the baby tooth is vital for several reasons, including preventing premature tooth loss, which can lead to misalignment of permanent teeth, problems with chewing, and speech development issues. Moreover, untreated infections can spread to other areas of the body and affect overall health.
Even though a baby root canal is less invasive than an adult root canal, it is no less critical. It requires specialized techniques, materials, and considerations for the child's comfort and long-term dental health. Understanding these differences helps parents make informed decisions about their children’s dental care, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the health of both primary and permanent teeth.
The team at My Kidz Dentist is here to help maintain your child’s oral health. Call the office, or schedule an appointment online to learn more about pediatric dental care.
