Pediatric Root Canals

At Endodontic Specialists of Colorado, we recognize the importance of baby teeth and do all we can to keep these teeth intact rather than have them prematurely extracted. For this reason, your child’s pediatric dentist may recommend root canal therapy for your child as an option to save a baby tooth affected by infection or extensive decay.

Why Your Child Might Need a Root Canal

If your child is experiencing sensitivity to temperatures or sugary food, extreme pain in a tooth, or if the tooth has been cracked or chipped, root canal therapy may be recommended. These symptoms can be symptoms of tooth decay or a dental cavity that has deepened into the center of the tooth (known as the pulp). If this occurs, a root canal will be performed. During this procedure, the infection in the pulp is removed, the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized, and a crown is placed over the tooth.

Differences Between a Pediatric Root Canal & an Adult Root Canal

Root canals performed on children are much faster and less painful than adult root canals. This is because only the infected pulp on the surface nerve structure is removed, meaning that our endodontists will not need to use any additional special instruments to remove the pulp from the tooth’s roots. Once the procedure is completed, a dental crown will be placed over the affected tooth to protect it from further damage.

Many parents have questions about how the tooth will fall out once a crown is placed over the top. Luckily, a crown will not affect the incoming adult tooth at all. The tooth will become loose and fall out just like any of your child’s other natural teeth.

If you believe your child needs root canal therapy, or to make an appointment at our endodontic office, please contact Endodontic Specialists. We have two locations in Pueblo and Colorado Springs, Colorado.