Root Canal Treatments For Primary Teeth

Abstract

Although it appears that the majority of those teaching pulp therapy for primary teeth believe that there is not enough scientific evidence available to justify root canal treatments for primary teeth, a minority of teachers believe that there is not enough evidence reported to date to justify the extraction of these teeth, particularly if the teeth can be retained in an apparently healthy condition as best determined by clinical and radiographic examinations. This mode of treatment is important if the teeth are to be retained to satisfy the space management and esthetic requirements. It is really difficult at this time with the available evidence to say with absolute certainty which belief is correct. There are many influential, vociferous advocates quick to defend on both sides of the argument. If very careful selection (diagnostic) procedures are followed, it is worth the time and effort needed to treat these teeth. Until enough evidence is available which will support one school of thought, successful root canal treatments can be performed on carefully selected primary teeth.