If a baby tooth has decay that has entered the nerve, or pulp, of the tooth, or if the tooth has suffered trauma, it may cause hot and cold sensitivity or constant pain. A root canal might be recommended to preserve the tooth until it is ready to come out on its own and be replaced by its permanent counterpart.

Saving a baby tooth instead of extracting it can help prevent issues with self-confidence, chewing, speech development, and bite alignment.

If your child has a broken tooth with exposed pulp, complains of hot/cold sensitivity or pain in a tooth, suffers trauma to the mouth, or if you notice a sudden change in your child’s eating habits, call Pacific Dental Care as soon as possible.

The Procedure

Just like a root canal on an adult tooth, our doctors will remove the diseased pulp tissue from the tooth, disinfect the area, and fill the root chamber with gutta-percha, a rubber-like natural material.

After the root canal, our doctors will place a small crown or other restoration on the tooth to help support the remaining tooth structure until it is ready to fall out on its own.

There may be some slight post-procedure sensitivity, but since the nerve is removed, there shouldn’t be any pain. Make sure to maintain a regular home care schedule to prevent the need of a root canal on any other baby teeth.

At Pacific Dental Care in Pleasanton, CA, we want to help keep your child's smile healthy and happy. If you are concerned about one of your child's teeth, please call our office as soon as possible to schedule an exam.