Dental health is one of the most important concerns of an individual, especially of parents, regarding their child. Many parents often tend to ignore the early signs of dental diseases. Root canal therapy is not restricted to adults only. In children, it can help in saving the tooth and avoiding further complications later in life. This would result in more serious dental problems if not timely treated.

Early detection of such signs will provide ample opportunities for restoring your child’s dental health to a bright and healthy smile. Let’s explore some key symptoms that may indicate root canal therapy in your child.

What is Pediatric Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy for children is aimed at the treatment of serious tooth damage or infections. Whenever there’s an infection in one of the child’s teeth, it may affect the nerves inside the tooth. This procedure aims at the removal of the infected tissue to maintain the tooth.

If left untreated, the infection could spread, causing loss of the tooth. Through root canal therapy for children in Tinley Park, the tooth is saved, normal physiological activity is restored, and pain is ameliorated. This is a safe and successful procedure in young patients and can allow them to maintain their healthy teeth.

Specific Symptoms That Root Canal Therapy May Be Required

Sharp Pain in the Tooth

Persistent or severe toothache, especially when chewing or touching the tooth, is one clear symptom signaling the necessity for root canal therapy in your child. This pain may intensify with time, and hence its disregard will lead to further complications.

Swollen or Tender Gums

Swelling or tenderness around the affected tooth may signal an infection. The gums may get inflamed, and your child could experience discomfort even during eating or brushing.

Sensitivity to Hot or Cold

If your child experiences any sharp, lingering pain after exposure to hot or cold foods and drinks, it might be a sign of nerve damage. Such sensitivity might indicate that the pulp inside the tooth is infected and needs root canal treatment.

Tooth Discoloration

A tooth that suddenly darkens or becomes discolored may be infected internally. The discoloration comes from a damaged or decayed pulp of a tooth. A root canal therapy in kids will have to be performed, which targets the problem at its very core.

Pimple-like bumps in the gums

At the root of the problematic tooth, pus-filled bumps may appear on the gums. This manifests as an abscess and is a sure-fire indication of a serious infection. The infection could be managed with root canal therapy to save the tooth.

Knowing When to Seek Help: When & How

The key to preventing more serious dental problems is early detection. If your child exhibits any of these symptoms, it is important not to wait around. Contact a pediatric dentist right away.

Delaying treatment may lead to more serious infections and even the loss of the tooth. Timely intervention alone protects your child from pathological changes in the teeth.

What to Expect During Children’s Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy for children in Tinley Park is done under local anesthesia to make sure your child is comfortable during the procedure. The pediatric dentist will remove the infected tissue inside the tooth and seal the tooth to prevent further infection.

After the procedure, your child may have mild discomfort, but in most cases, pain can be managed by over-the-counter pain relief. Encourage your child to rest and not chew on the treated side until healed.

Symptoms, such as pain, sensitivity, and even swelling of the tooth, are just some of the possible symptoms that may show up and indicate a need for a root canal in children. Don’t wait any longer for the problem to worsen.

If your child shows any of these signs, then schedule an appointment with us today to help save your child’s tooth and restore their healthy smile.

FAQs

What is the success rate of root canal therapy for children?

Root canal therapy for children has a high success rate when performed by an experienced pediatric dentist and when the infection is detected early.

Can root canal therapy be done in one visit?

In most cases, root canal therapy can be completed in a single visit. More complex cases may require additional appointments.

Can my child get a root canal without local anesthesia?

Local anesthesia is typically used to ensure your child’s comfort during the procedure. It’s not recommended to perform a root canal without it.

Can root canal therapy help if my child has a broken tooth?

Yes, root canal therapy may be necessary if the broken tooth is infected or the nerve is exposed.

How can I tell if my child’s root canal was successful?

A successful root canal will result in no pain, no signs of infection, and a restored, functional tooth.