Root Canal Treatment in Baby Teeth

If a root canal treatment is performed on a baby tooth, will it harm the permanent tooth underneath?

Baby teeth are independent from the underlying permanent teeth, so their treatment can be performed without affecting the permanent teeth below. Root canal treatment may be necessary for baby teeth when decay is advanced, or in cases of night pain, sensitivity to heat, discomfort while eating, or swelling. If the baby tooth is lost prematurely, it may later require more complex and costly orthodontic treatment.

Root Canal Treatment for Teeth with Open Apices

While the closure of the root tip can usually be achieved over 1–2 years with 1-, 3-, and 6-month check-ups and dressings, in non-vital teeth, regenerative endodontics can achieve successful results within approximately 3 weeks, followed by continued 6-month check-ups.

Root Canal Treatment in Permanent Teeth

Root canal treatment in permanent teeth depends on whether the root apex has closed, which varies according to the patient’s age. After teeth emerge in the mouth, root formation takes approximately three years. In teeth with fully developed root apices, the treatment follows the standard procedure used in adult patients. However, in teeth with open apices, the treatment process is different. Initially, the root apex needs to be closed, and only afterward can the root canal treatment be completed.

How long does a root canal procedure take?

Root canal treatment in children is completed much faster than commonly thought and is simpler than in adults. It is not long or difficult like in adult patients.

Why is root canal treatment done on baby teeth?

Baby teeth serve as guides for permanent teeth, so their care is very important. As long as it does not harm the permanent tooth underneath, the baby tooth should be preserved in the mouth. If necessary, root canal treatment is performed on the baby tooth to extend its lifespan.