What is endodontics?
Endodontics is the branch of dentistry that deals with the treatment of tooth pulp. The pulp is the connective tissue that contains blood vessels and nerves and fills the tooth chamber and roots. When the pulp of a tooth is damaged by decay, trauma or infection, endodontic treatment is necessary.
Endodontics in children and adolescents is slightly different from endodontics in adults. The growth and development of a child's mouth pose certain challenges for the endodontist dentist. Therefore, it is important for parents to be aware of the differences and take proper care of their child's dental health.
When is endodontics necessary?
Endodontics in children is usually needed when there is deep decay that has reached the pulp of the tooth. Symptoms of this situation may include severe pain, hypersensitivity to cold or heat, swelling of the tooth area or the appearance of pus around the tooth.
For adolescents, endodontics may be necessary in the event of a tooth injury, such as a root fracture, especially if it involves damage to the tooth's pulp.
It is important to see a dentist as soon as possible if there are any symptoms indicating the need for endodontics. The earlier the diagnosis and treatment is made, the better the chance of saving the tooth and avoiding further complications.
What is endodontics in children and adolescents like?
Endodontics in children and adolescents proceeds differently than in adults. Since deciduous teeth have thinner walls and shorter roots than permanent teeth, the procedure can be easier and less complicated. Anesthesia is used to ensure comfort and minimize pain during the procedure.
The first step is to remove decay and damaged tooth tissue. The dentist then proceeds to take the pulp from the tooth chamber and from the roots using appropriate tools.
After removing the pulp from the tooth, the dentist thoroughly cleans the chamber of bacteria and washes it with a special antiseptic solution. The chamber and the roots of the tooth are then filled with a special material to prevent reinfection.
Special resorptive fillings are also used for children who have deciduous teeth, which backfill as the deciduous tooth naturally dissolves.
How to take care of a child's teeth after endodontics?
After endodontics, it is important to take proper care of your child's teeth to avoid possible complications. It is important to regularly brush your child's teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, use floss or interdental brushes to clean the interdental spaces, and visit the dentist regularly.
Your dentist may also recommend fluoride or whitening preparations to help keep your child's teeth healthy and beautiful. Remember, prevention is the key to keeping your child's smile healthy.
Summary
Endodontics in children and adolescents is an important branch of dentistry that aims to treat damaged tooth pulp. It is very important to see a dentist as soon as possible if you have any symptoms indicating the need for endodontics.
The endodontic procedure in children and adolescents proceeds differently than in adults, due to the nature of deciduous and permanent teeth. After endodontics, it is important to take proper care of your child's teeth to avoid possible complications and maintain a healthy smile.
Remember that regular visits to the dentist, hygienic habits and preventive care are key to keeping your child's teeth and gums healthy.