Is it safe to get my son's dental treatment done under GA?

Question

Hello doctor,

My son, 2 years and 10 months, has been suggested RCT (pulpotomy).

Background: My son is breastfed and still feeds during sleep. He has complained of pain once or twice in the last three to four months. His oral habits are not good. He cries his heart out when we brush his teeth (normally once a day). He likes shakes and juices. He is on an antibiotic and analgesic course currently. He does not speak much. So, communication is a problem for him.

Questions: Should we go for RCT (root canal treatment) directly after the first round of complaining and medication or should we wait and see? What alternatives do we have? Is GA safe for such young kids? Does it have any impact on his future teeth? What can we do to improve his oral health irrespective of whether we opt for GA (general anesthesia) or not?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have seen the image sent by you (attachment removed to protect patient identity).

Yes, the molar tooth is exposed and needs pulpotomy.

You need to brush his teeth more often, especially at night before sleep. Use a finger brush which can be worn on your fingers and use it to insert inside the mouth properly and brush regularly. Use a kid's toothpaste like Pediflor.

Ask your dentist to coat the teeth with a topical fluoride application.

At 2 years, the pulpotomy procedure can only be done under GA (general anesthesia).

I suggest you take the antibiotics and painkillers as advised. There is no other alternative.

Formore information consult a paediatric dentist online.