Pediatric Root Canals

in Maitland, FL

Just like adults, children sometimes develop deep decay that affects the inner tooth pulp, causing pain, swelling, and even tooth loss. At Maitland Pediatric Dentistry, we offer baby root canals to save infected or damaged teeth, restoring their health and function until their adult replacements come in. You can count on Dr. Aloise and our kid-friendly team for compassionate care in a welcoming environment.

Book Visit

A happy girl with curly hair, smiling after receiving root canals.

Why Save a Baby Tooth?

A baby tooth will eventually fall out, so why save it? Maintaining healthy baby teeth is integral to your child’s long-term oral health. These little pearly whites act like placeholders, keeping the space the permanent teeth need to come in correctly. If a primary tooth is lost too early due to deep decay or trauma, the neighboring teeth may shift toward the gap, leading to crooked or crowded adult teeth. That often means a child may need braces or other orthodontic treatments in the future.

A happy boy with curly hair wearing a blue hoodie, smiling after receiving root canals.

What is a Baby Root Canal?

If a baby tooth is severely damaged or infected due to deep decay or trauma, Dr. Aloise may recommend a pediatric root canal. Even though that may sound intimidating, the procedure is quick and straightforward, comparable to having a cavity filled. Dr. Aloise and our dedicated team will do everything possible to ensure your child is comfortable and free of stress during treatment.

Before your child’s baby root canal procedure, we will numb the area with local anesthesia. We are also happy to offer nitrous oxide sedation or “happy air,” if needed, to help your child feel calm and relaxed during treatment. Depending on the extent of the damage, Dr. Aloise may recommend a pulpotomy or a pulpectomy.

What is a Pulpotomy vs Pulpectomy?

● Pulpotomy: Your child will need a pulpotomy if the damage affects the tooth's inner pulp but not its root. The procedure involves removing the diseased tooth pulp while leaving the healthy tissues intact. After cleaning and disinfecting the tooth, Dr. Aloise will place a special medication that protects the healthy pulp before sealing the space. A pulpotomy will save the tooth, restoring its function until it’s ready to fall out naturally.

● Pulpectomy: A pulpectomy is required if the tooth damage or decay affects the tooth pulp and the roots. It involves removing the infected pulp and nerve tissues, cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, and placing an inert material that is naturally absorbed when the baby tooth falls out, allowing the permanent tooth roots to develop normally. Just like a pulpotomy, a pulpectomy will preserve the treated baby tooth until its replacement is ready to come in.

After a baby root canal treatment, we typically place a dental crown over the treated tooth to protect it and prevent further damage or breakage. The crown will stay in place until it’s time for the tooth to fall out naturally.

How We Help Your Child Relax During Treatment

We strive to ensure every visit is a calm, relaxed, and happy experience.
Here's what sets Maitland Pediatric Dentistry apart:

We're a Friendly,
Kid-Centered Team

Dr. Aloise and our team members love kids and work hard to make your child's time memorable and free of stress.

We Speak Your
Child's Language

We use kid-friendly language, turning toothbrushes into "Mr. Bumpy" and the dental drill into a sensational "water gun."

We Offer Happy Air for Calm Treatments

We offer nitrous oxide, or "happy air," if needed, to help your child feel calm and relaxed while getting outstanding dental care.

Your Child can Watch TV During Treatment

Your child will enjoy watching a favorite TV show while getting the best possible dental care!

We Have Treasure
Box Rewards

Your child will love our treasure box rewards - every visit ends on a delightful note!