Root canal treatment for children, often referred to as a pulpotomy or pulpectomy, is a specialized dental procedure designed to save a severely decayed or injured baby tooth. While the term “root canal” may sound intimidating, parents should know that pediatric versions are gentler and tailored to the unique needs of growing teeth. These treatments relieve pain, stop infection, and preserve the tooth until it naturally falls out, ensuring proper chewing, speech development, and space maintenance for permanent teeth.
December 2, 2025
Root canal treatment for children (often called pulpotomy or pulpectomy) is a safe and effective way to save a severely decayed or injured tooth. Parents should know that it helps relieve pain, stop infection, and preserve the tooth until it naturally falls out, ensuring proper chewing, speech, and jaw development
Brushing Twice Daily 
Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush for at least two minutes.
Flossing Once a Day Clean between teeth to remove plaque and food particles where brushes can’t reach.
Rinsing with Mouthwash Helps reduce bacteria, strengthen enamel, and keep breath fresh.
Regular Dental Checkups Visit your dentist every 6 months for professional cleaning and early detection of issues.
Healthy Eating Habits Limit sugary snacks and drinks; choose tooth-friendly foods like fruits, veggies, and dairy.
Replacing Your Toothbrush Every 3–4 months, or sooner if bristles are worn out.
Staying Hydrated Drinking water helps wash away food particles and keeps saliva flowing to protect teeth.
Oral hygiene is about consistency and care. Small daily habits add up to a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Purpose: Treats deep decay or trauma that has reached the tooth’s pulp (nerve and blood vessels).
Types:
Pulpotomy – removes only the infected pulp in the crown portion of the tooth.
Pulpectomy – removes pulp from both crown and root canals.
Goal: Preserve the tooth until it naturally exfoliates, avoiding premature loss that could affect alignment and development
Pain Relief: Eliminates toothache caused by infection.
Prevents Spread: Stops bacteria from spreading to other teeth or gums.
Maintains Function: Keeps baby teeth in place for chewing and speech.
Guides Permanent Teeth: Preserves space for adult teeth to erupt correctly
Diagnosis: X-rays and clinical exam to confirm pulp damage.
Steps: Removal of infected pulp, cleaning canals, filling with safe material, and sealing.
Restoration: Usually finished with a crown (often stainless steel for durability).
Sedation Options: Local anesthesia, nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”), or mild sedation for comfort
Mild soreness is normal; pain relief may be recommended.
Soft diet for a few days to avoid stress on the tooth.
Good oral hygiene (gentle brushing and flossing).
Follow-up visits to monitor healing and crown integrity
