We’ve talked about repairing decayed teeth with our fillings and even our custom dental crowns. But what if the decay becomes an infection and a crown isn’t enough? In these scenarios, your Round Rock, TX, pediatric dentist could save the tooth and protect the smile with a pediatric root canal.

The Factors Behind Your Child’s Infection

At the center of every tooth is a group of living tissues known as the pulp. Then pulp keeps your child’s tooth functional and healthy, overseeing the flow of blood and nutrients to and from it. However, when a cavity grows so severe it exposes the pulp to bacteria, or a cracked or chipped tooth could leave the pulp vulnerable to bacteria. Then an infection begins. Children could then experience serious discomfort when eating, and could complain about worsening tooth sensitivity and toothaches. Lack of treatment could mean a baby tooth is prematurely lost, which alters how the permanent teeth erupt and causes the onset of dental misalignment, which in turn could require orthodontic care in the teen years!

Treatment with a Root Canal

When your child complains about discomfort, bring him or her in for an exam. If we find there is a cavity, we could likely treat the issue with a simple and lifelike filling. However, if we discover an infection, we may suggest root canal therapy to prevent tooth loss. We administer a numbing agent and sedation so your child is calm and relaxed. We then open the tooth and remove the infected pulp, replacing it with a medicated filling. The final step is to cap the tooth with a crown, protecting it and offering a lifelike appearance. Your child then enjoys relief from the discomfort, and a stronger smile.

Limiting the Risk of an Infected Tooth

To help prevent an infection or decay, be sure you help your little one brush and floss each day. These actions remove food particles and help prevent cavities and infection from developing. Cutting back on sugary foods and drinks is helpful too, as this prevents harmful bacteria of a meal and limiting harmful plaque and tartar buildup. A visit every six months means we can identify the issue early, often before your little one ever experiences painful symptoms. We also clean the teeth, removing all buildup to keep smiles healthy, clean, and bright. If you have any questions about how we treat decay and infected teeth, then contact our team today.

Pediatric Dentistry of Round Rock Offers Endodontic Care

Pediatric Dentistry of Round Rock is ready to diagnose and treat an infected or abscessed tooth. If you want to learn more about protecting your child’s smile with dental care, then start by contacting the Pediatric Dentistry of Round Rock in Round Rock, TX at 512-733-5311.