When an infection forms inside a child’s tooth, there are often two ways to treat it: root canal or extraction. Many people assume the latter option is the best way to go, believing it will eliminate the problem and prove easiest in the long run; however, this is not always true. Children who still have their baby teeth can benefit from what pediatric dentists call pulp therapy – a procedure similar to a root canal. Keep reading to learn the pros and cons of each and why saving your child’s primary tooth is likely to be the option their dentist chooses.
Root Canals (Pulp Therapy) & Extractions: What Are the Pros and Cons?
Trying to determine whether your child should endure a root canal (pulp therapy) or tooth extraction is not often the easiest decision, especially if you’re trying to make it without knowing all the pros and cons. Before meeting with your child’s pediatric dentist for their next appointment, consider the following:
Pulp Therapy Pros and Cons
- Pulp therapy is designed to save the natural baby tooth so it will remain in place and eventually fall out on its own.
- Pulp therapy offers pain relief from the infection that exists inside the tooth.
- Pulp therapy removes the infection (the source of pain).
- There is potential that your child will experience some soreness and discomfort following pulp therapy.
Tooth Extraction Pros and Cons
- Removing the tooth can eliminate the future possibility of reinfection and possible pain.
- Removing the tooth can cause your child to experience difficulty chewing or speaking.
- Removing the tooth too early can cause the nearby healthy teeth to begin shifting out of alignment in an attempt to cover the space, especially if a space maintainer is not incorporated as part of the treatment.
Why is Pulp Therapy the Better Option?
Your child’s pediatric dentist will likely recommend pulp therapy because it is better for your child’s long-term oral health. While severely decayed teeth may need to be extracted to prevent the spread of infection, those that can be treated with pulp therapy will find that saving the tooth can positively effect on the eruption of the permanent one when it arrives.
There is no need to remove a primary tooth if the infection – the source of the pain – can be easily removed. Any post-treatment discomfort your child might experience can be managed with an over-the-counter pain reliever and should dissipate within a few days.
Tooth extraction is only recommended as a last resort, so give your child’s smile a chance to grow naturally. This will ensure greater eruption and developmental success in the future.
About the Author
Dr. Nick Capezio is a board-eligible pediatric dentist in Buffalo Grove who cares about the health of young smiles and how they develop over time. This is why when an infection occurs inside a growing tooth, he takes special care to evaluate the problem and make the best decision possible. Whether it is a root canal or tooth extraction he recommends, you can trust that he will always keep your child’s best interest in mind. If your child is complaining of tooth pain, visit our website or call (847) 459-9100.