Tips for Preparing Your Child for a Root Canal
What do you feel when you think about a root canal? Does it make you feel nervous inside? Does your heart start pumping a little faster? If so, you’re not alone. Lots of people find the idea of getting a root canal unsettling. If that’s how you feel as an adult, imagine how your child might feel, especially if they pick up on any anxiety you’re feeling. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to help prepare your child if they need to have a root canal done.
Help Them Understand Why It's Necessary
Most people prefer to understand why things must be done, and children are no exception. Helping your child understand why a root canal is necessary can help them feel better about having it done. Root canals help preserve the tooth as much as possible and reduce the risk of having to replace the tooth entirely with an implant.
Explain What to Expect
One of the other things that can go a long way towards helping your child understand and feel more comfortable about having a root canal done is to explain what they should expect. The dentist will start by administering anesthesia. A small drill will be used to open the tooth so it can be cleaned out. Then the inside of the tooth will be shaped and cleaned before being filled and a crown placed on top to protect the tooth.
Stock Up on Favorite Soft Foods Together
Your child will do better after a root canal if they have soft foods they can eat. Give them a bit of control over the situation by taking them to the grocery store and letting them pick some of their favorite soft foods to eat after the procedure. It can be a fun activity for you to do together and will give them something to look forward to when everything is all done.
Contrary to popular belief, root canals aren’t supposed to be any more painful than other routine dental procedures. You should expect your child to have some discomfort after any pain management methods wear off though. Over-the-counter pain relievers, soft foods, rest, and enjoyable distractions can help your child get through their recovery period relatively easily. Ask Dr. Maccaro if you have questions about other things you could do to help your child recover.
Do you need to schedule an appointment for your child? Click here to contact Maccaro Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry so you can set one up today!
