It may seem unusual for a 16-year-old to have a root canal, but it is not unheard of. Young people may sometimes need a root surgery for a variety of reasons.
Let’s shed some light on the subject by explaining when and why a 16-year-old might need a root canal and what the procedure involves.
Why would a 16-year-old need a root canal?
Trauma
Tooth trauma, like a sports accident or a bad fall, can damage the pulp of the tooth and make a root canal necessary.
Deep Decay
Advanced tooth decay that has gotten to the pulp can cause infection and swelling, which means you need a root treatment.
Developmental Issues
Some problems with how the tooth was made can affect its health and make a root canal necessary.
2. Signs that indicate a root canal is needed
Persistent Toothache
A root canal may be needed if the pain is severe and lasts for a long time, especially when cutting or putting pressure on the tooth.
Sensitivity
If a tooth is more sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, even after the trigger is taken away, this could mean that the pulp is involved.
Swelling and Abscess
Infection can be shown by swelling or a small bump on the gum near the infected tooth that looks like a pimple.
3. The Procedure For Root Canal At 16
Consultation and X-rays
The dentist will look at the tooth and take X-rays to see how badly it is hurt and decide if it needs a root treatment.
Anesthesia
Local anesthesia will be given to make sure the process is painless.
Removal of the pulp
The dentist will make a small hole in the tooth to get to the pulp, then remove the infected or broken pulp and clean the inner chamber.
Filling and sealing
After the chamber has been cleaned, it is filled with gutta-percha, a biocompatible material, and the access hole is shut.
Restoration
A crown or filling is usually put on the tooth after a root canal to protect it and get it back to working order.
FAQs
Is it normal for a 16-year-old to have a root canal?
Even though it doesn’t happen often, a 16-year-old might need root treatment. The treatment may be needed because of an accident, advanced tooth decay, or problems with development.
Will it hurt to have a root canal done?
No, local anesthesia is used during the root canal process to make sure that you are comfortable and feel little to no pain.
How long does it take to do a root canal?
The length of a root canal procedure can rely on how complicated the tooth is and how bad the damage is. Most of the time, it can be done in one or two meetings of about 60 to 90 minutes each.
Can I eat properly after getting a root canal?
You might not be able to chew on the tooth that was treated right away after the treatment. But once the tooth is fixed with a crown or filling, you can go back to eating the way you normally do.
Conclusion
Even though it doesn’t happen often, a root canal at 16 can be necessary for some situations, such as trauma, deep decay, or problems with growth. If you or your child is having signs that a root canal is needed, you should see a dentist as soon as possible.
At Smile Sky Dental, we analyze the problem to decide if a root canal is necessary. Our expert team provides dental care and root canal treatments and makes the tooth healthy again. We are skilled to help people of all ages with all of their dental needs.
