How to Prepare a Child for Root Canal

Root canals are sometimes necessary for children, both for their baby teeth and adult teeth. There are two types of procedures--a pulpectomy and a pulpotomy. Root canals are usually dreaded by adults. Imagine a child's feeling of anxiousness when faced with the dental procedure. Parents can do a lot before the root canal to prepare their children and calm their fears.

Instructions

• 1

  Make going to the dentist a positive experience. Talk to your child about how the dentist will keep his teeth healthy.

• 2

  Keep your answers as simple as possible. Talk about how his tooth is hurt and needs to be fixed.

• 3

  Use a book to help you prepare your child. A good one to buy is "Show Me Your Smile! A Visit to the Dentist," featuring Dora the Explorer.

• 4

  Promise a reward for when the child is done with the dentist appointment. Tell him the dentist will give him a new toothbrush. If there's a special toy he's been wanting, you can use that as a treat, too.

• 5

  Arrange the root canal appointment in the morning, if possible. This is the time of day your child is less likely to be tired or irritable.