Children are generally awake for these procedures. Pain medication may not be needed for filling small cavities. Some parents request this option. Given that some children require more than one baby root canal, cost can be a deciding factor in what type of treatment to choose. Insurance coverage varies for this procedure, but is usually at least partially covered by most plans.
Extraction is sometimes the only option if a tooth is decayed beyond repair.
In these cases, a dentist may recommend a space-saving retainer to help prevent other teeth from shifting into the empty space. The retainer consists of a metal band with a wire the width of a thin paper clip attached to it. Pulling a tooth may also be an option, without the need for a space retainer, if the baby tooth is close to falling out on its own. Most pediatric dentists recommend preserving a baby tooth, given its importance as a space saver for the adult tooth that will follow. Beautiful smiles with no decay and children that enjoy their dental visits.