Are Root Canals for Baby Teeth Necessary?
Many people think that baby teeth are going to fall out anyway so what’s the point in worrying about what happens to them?
Unfortunately, this type of thinking can leave your baby or young child in severe pain and with the possibility of an infection. The dramatic increase in sugar consumption is being blamed for as many as 32% of the child population having dental health issues.
Sugar combines with bacteria in your mouth to attack the enamel on your teeth. Eventually, it will breakthrough. This process does take time but it’s generally quicker with children as the enamel hasn’t yet fully hardened.
The result is the inner part of the tooth is exposed, the bacteria continue to attack and can cause an infection inside the tooth. This is extremely painful and, if left untreated, can lead to a much more serious issue, the infection can dislodge the tooth, causing it to fall out, it can also damage the bone and tooth socket.
This can make it very difficult for another tooth to emerge successfully.
Root Canal
Root canal will clean the infected area and then put a filling into it. This will strengthen the tooth and protect your child’s mouth from attack or injury. While adults may then have crowns fitted, this is not always necessary for children as the main aim is to save the tooth and allow it to fall out naturally without disturbing the root canal for the adult tooth.
That’s why you need holistic dentist Brisbane, they’ll look at the overall health of your child and treat them accordingly. This is important as dental health is directly connected with overall health, understanding the link means that your child will get the best possible care and have the best chance for a healthy adult life.
The Dentist
If your child suffers from a tooth infection and needs root canal then you, and they, need to know what’s involved. The tooth will be extremely painful and you’ll only be able to give a limited array of painkillers. Your dentist will be in a better position to tell you what painkillers can be given.
You’ll have to visit the dentist and they will look for signs of pus, swollen cheeks, pain, and sensitivity. They’ll then take an x-ray to confirm the infection.
It will then be necessary to give your child an anesthetic so that they don’t feel pain as the dentist drills a hole in their tooth and cleans out the pulp chamber. This is then sealed and, f necessary a crown will be fitted.
The crown cannot usually be completed the same day as an imprint of the tooth is necessary. Your child may also need to take antibiotics to ensure the infection is taken care of.
If you think your child is in pain or has an issue, don’t delay visiting the dentist. An untreated infection can lead to sepsis and even death. This is one time when it is better to take early action and be safe, rather than sorry.
