Baby Root Canal vs. Tooth Extraction

Why not pull a baby tooth instead of getting a “baby root canal”? This is a common question from parent’s who have children with a baby tooth needing a pulpotomy, commonly called a “baby root canal.” Parents wonder why, if the tooth is not permanent and will come out anyway, why do a root canal when the tooth can simply be extracted.
This is a great question!
In children, damage to the tooth’s pulp can be caused by traumatic injury or tooth decay. Sometimes, even, cavities can form behind fillings causing deep decay in your child’s teeth.
A pediatric “baby root canal”, or pulpotomy, is a common recommended treatment for children with pulp damage rather than extraction of the affected tooth. Extraction can cause other problems that impact the development of the adjacent teeth and can cause complications when the permanent tooth is ready to grow in.
Common symptoms of damaged pulp include:

•   Tooth pain
•   Temperature sensitivity when eating
•   Swelling and redness
•   Unexpected loose tooth
•   Cracked, separated, or otherwise damaged filling

It is best for your child’s oral health and permanent tooth development to save and keep intact baby teeth.
To make an appointment for teeth-whitening, or to discuss any of your dental concerns or questions, email us at info@lifestyledental.co.uk , or call us on 01772 717316.