shirley root canal for kidsWhen children have advanced and untreated cases of tooth decay, this means the tooth could eventually become infected. The infection then leads to greater discomfort, and even the risk of tooth loss. To help preserve the teeth and bring relief, your Shirley, NY, pediatric dentist and orthodontist could offer a pulpotomy.

Infections and Little Smiles

Children often develop infected teeth when a cavity remains untreated. As the decay grows and spreads, it makes contact with the inner pulp, which then leads to an infection that could cause tooth loss unless addressed. When your children complain about an aching tooth, let us know right away. You could also bring your little ones in for regular checkup visits every six months, so we can watch the smile and identify trouble in the earliest stages of demineralization, before the cavity even causes discomfort. Causes could include an injury to the tooth that isn’t treated, or a cavity caused by poor oral hygiene habits and a diet high in sugar and starch.

The Pulpotomy Procedure

Warning signs of trouble could include tooth sensitivity and toothaches, or even pain when they bite down or chew. There could be swelling near the tooth as well. We will start the pulpotomy procedure by examining the tooth with advanced digital imaging systems, so we can identify the presence of the infection and assess the severity. Treatment begins with our team administering a local anesthetic, and possibly sedation, to ensure your child is comfortable and calm. The tooth is opened so we can reach and remove infected portions of the inner pulp. We then add a special medication to it. The last step involves capping the tooth with a dental crown. When possible, we like to use ceramic and other materials for more lifelike results. Whoever, we could use stainless steel or zirconia for side and rear teeth, which endure greater bite forces.

Taking Preventive Actions?

To help your children avoid tooth decay, our team recommends making sure they brush in the morning and then again at night for at least two minutes per session. They also need to floss in between the teeth and cut back on foods and drinks high in sugar and starch. We can also discuss fluoride treatment and dental sealants to help lower the risk of cavities, and provide cleanings every six months to remove lawyers of plaque and tartar that could otherwise cause tooth decay and gingivitis. If you have any questions, then contact our team today to learn more.

Talk to Your Shirley, NY, Orthodontist and Pediatric Dentist

We would like to help your children avoid painful symptoms and premature tooth loss. To learn more about treating advanced tooth decay and dental infections, then contact Shirley Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry in Shirley, NY, by calling (631) 399-1600.