No Pain, No Problem? Does My Child Need Pulp Treatment if Their Tooth Stops Hurting?

Ouch! If your child yelps while chewing and the pain doesn’t fade, you may need to schedule a dentist appointment. Tooth pain isn’t normal, especially if it occurs while eating room-temperature food or appears out of nowhere. But what if it goes away? Should you still take them to their dentist? Continue reading to learn more about pulp treatment and how disappearing pain might mean more than meets the eye.

What Is Pulp Treatment?

Pulp treatment, often referred to as a “baby root canal,” is a dental procedure performed to treat infection or damage. Teeth have multiple layers and at the center of each is a collection of nerves and other tissues called pulp. When a cavity or oral infection spreads into the pulp chamber, it can cause a lot of pain. Pulp treatment removes the damaged tissues and protects the tooth from further harm.

Signs Your Child May Need Pulp Treatment

So, how do you know when your child may need pulp treatment? While a consultation with their pediatric dentist is the best way to find out, there are signs to look for:

• Tooth Sensitivity: While severe tooth pain is a common symptom, your child may also experience sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks. This is often a symptom of pulp inflammation or infection.
• Visible Tooth Damage: If your child has a visibly damaged or decayed tooth, it’s best to take them to their dentist quickly. Decay can progress rapidly in primary teeth, leading to damaged pulp.
• Darkening of the Tooth: Discoloration or darkening of a tooth can indicate pulp tissue damage, often caused by trauma or deep decay.
• Persistent Toothache: If your child is experiencing ongoing or repeated toothaches, even if mild, it may signal an underlying dental issue.
• Abscess or Swelling: If you check your child’s mouth and see swollen tissues around the hurting tooth, it could be an abscess. This pimple-like spot is a sign of a severe infection that’s making its way through their gums. If not treated quickly, it could result in severe sickness.

Should I Call My Child’s Pediatric Dentist?

If you notice any of these concerning symptoms, schedule a consultation with your child’s pediatric dentist as soon as possible. They will perform a complete examination, including X-rays, to assess the extent of the issue and lay out treatment options. If pulp treatment is necessary, it can be performed within an hour and leave your child feeling relieved.

So, if your child comes to you with a toothache, take it seriously. Even if they feel the pain go away, it could be a sign that something is happening under the surface. Early intervention can help preserve their dental health and ensure a bright smile for years to come.

About the Author

Dr. Allen Pearson has been a pediatric dentist for decades, helping his young patients improve their smiles, get out of pain, and learn healthy oral habits. He is a board-certified pediatric dentist with a doctorate from the Creighton University School of Dentistry. Call (972) 429-7070 to schedule a consultation for tooth pain at Wylie Children’s Dentistry or visit the website to explore other services they provide.