A pulpotomy (often called a baby root canal) is frequently done on severely decayed baby teeth to save the tooth from abscesses, facial swelling, and extraction.  The procedure removes infected pulp from the tooth before cleaning and sealing it so it can function normally without further risk of infection. If your child will visit the pediatric dentist for this type of dental care soon, use these tips to streamline the recovery process.

5 Aftercare Tips for Your Child’s Root Canal

1. Watch Your Child Until the Anesthesia Wears Off

Children are not as used to dental anesthesia as adults and may unwittingly bite, chew, or touch the affected area. Watch your child carefully, and do not allow them to eat anything that requires chewing until the anesthesia wears off. Chewing with the numbed tooth can cause bleeding and swelling.

2. Provide Soft Foods

Typically a full coverage crown is done after a pulpotomy but If a temporary filling was placed give your child soft foods such as yogurt, applesauce, pureed vegetables, to avoid knocking the temporary filling out of place. Also, instruct your child not to chew on the side with the affected tooth.  If a full coverage crown was placed the gums will be tender for a few days.

3. Emphasize Gentle Brushing

Gentle brushing after crowns is important to avoid hurting the tender gums.  Show your child how to brush gently, and clean your teeth together to provide a helpful example. Use a timer, such as fun song, to ensure you both brush gently for two minutes.  If your child is under 6-7 years of age you should do their brushing for them.

4. Use Numbing Agents & Pain Relievers

Root canals often cause temporary soreness once the anesthesia wears off. Provide ice packs and over-the-counter pain relievers to help your child manage this discomfort. Read the directions before you use medication, and cover the ice pack with a washcloth so it is not directly against your child’s skin.

5. See Your Pediatric Dentist If Severe Symptoms Emerge

Sometimes root canal patients experience serious symptoms after their procedures; however, these symptoms are sometimes related to insufficient aftercare. Schedule an emergency appointment with your pediatric dentist if your child experiences severe pressure or pain lasting for several days, swelling inside or outside the mouth, a loosened filling, uneven bite, or an allergic reaction to pain medication.

Whether your child needs a root canal or any other form of dental care, rely on Pedodontic Associates to provide exceptional services. In their two offices on Oahu and one on Maui, these talented pediatric dentists have offered a full suite of dental care services for over 25 years. Call (808) 735-1733 for Honolulu, (808) 487-7933 for Aiea, or (808) 877-0066 for Kahului to schedule an appointment, or fill out a patient form online.