When a Cavity Isn’t Just a Cavity: Signs Your Child May Need a Root Canal

Tooth decay is a common problem for millions of kids, with data estimating that nearly half of all kids have had at least one cavity by the time they reach age 19. What many parents don’t know is that while all cavities need to be treated, some can be more serious than others, involving the interior part of the tooth and raising the risk of serious — and even widespread — infections.

This type of tooth decay can’t be treated with a regular filling. Instead, it needs root canal therapy, which involves techniques designed to remove the decayed and damaged inner pulp portion of the tooth, thereby restoring the tooth and preventing both deep infection and tooth loss.

At Compassionate Endodontists New York/NYC, our team is skilled in advanced endodontic treatments tailored to the unique needs of pediatric patients, helping children maintain their oral health and their beautiful smiles, too. Here, learn the telltale signs that could mean your child needs a pediatric root canal.

1. Tooth pain that lingers or gets worse

While moderate to large cavities typically cause some tooth pain, deeper decay tends to cause pain that’s more intense or worsens over time. Your child may find applying pressure to the tooth triggers significant discomfort, especially when biting or chewing, or even when pressing the tooth with a clean finger. 

Your child may describe the pain as throbbing, or they may report that the pain is spreading to their jaw or even the ear area. This type of persistent, severe, or worsening pain may indicate a deep infection that’s invading other areas — even the bone tissue — and prompt evaluation by our team is essential.

2. Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures

If your child winces or complains of discomfort when eating ice cream or sipping soup (or other cold or hot foods), that’s another potential indicator of damage to the tooth’s central pulp portion. 

This is the area that contains the tooth’s nerves, and if the pulp is damaged or exposed through a crack or cavity, hot and cold temperatures are more likely to cause sensitivity and pain. Even breathing in cold air can be enough to trigger discomfort in a tooth with decay or infection in the pulp portion.

3. Lump, bump, or swelling in the gum

When infection spreads to the surrounding gum tissue, it can quickly lead to swelling. A lump or bump in the tissue near the affected tooth can also indicate a more advanced type of infection called an abscess. 

These signs indicate the germs are spreading to other areas, and prompt treatment is required to prevent more serious complications. Our team can evaluate the tooth and determine if a root canal is in order or if another treatment is more appropriate.

4. Tooth discoloration

Some tooth stains are due to the foods or drinks we consume. Foods and drinks with dark pigments can leave residues behind, and over time, they can cause teeth to appear yellower or grayer than normal.

But other times, a tooth changes color — typically becomes darker or grayish — because of deep decay and internal damage. This is another sign that the tooth’s structure has been compromised, and a root canal is needed to restore the tooth and prevent further problems.

5. Facial or jaw swelling or tenderness

Swelling along the jawline or face near the affected tooth is a sign that the infection is spreading beyond the immediate area of the tooth into the soft tissues and possibly the jawbone. Swelling may be visible, or your child may complain of discomfort when the area is gently touched or pressed. 

Advancing infections can enter the bloodstream, causing widespread infection in other areas of your child’s body, even affecting their organs. If you notice this sign, call the office right away so we can evaluate your child and recommend treatment to prevent complications.

Protect your child’s healthy future

Pediatric root canals can help save permanent teeth and baby teeth, too, preventing overcrowding and other issues by keeping primary teeth in place until the adult teeth emerge later. To learn more about pediatric root canals and to have your child evaluated by our team, call 929-229-0255 or book an appointment online at Compassionate Endodontists New York/NYC in New York City today.