Hello Dr.  I am a concerned parent of a very scared 6 year old.  I was told by the family dentist, which is not a pediatric dentist, that he needed a pulpectomy/baby root canal; however, my son is not in pain and the cavity is close to the root, but not touching it.  This tooth had a previous filling in it by this dentist a year ago, and obviously must have fallen out.  I am just concerned that this might be toradical.  Unfortunately, all I have is Medicaid and my options are kinda short.  I am willing to pay if necessary.  I just do not know if this is the right procedure for my son.  Please help!

Dr. Asensio: Root canal treatment for baby teeth and permanent teeth are not the same kind of treatment.  A 6 year old probably has a mix of both baby and permanent teeth.  If the tooth is decayed, badly broken, or infected the treatment indicated is a "baby tooth root canal."  In this case only the tissue inside the clinical crown of the tooth is removed medicaments are placed inside and the tooth is covered with a stainless steel crown.  The alternative to this treatment is the removal of the tooth.  Now be advised that removing the tooth may not be the best alternative in the long term.  For example, the baby teeth are helpers for the control of the spaces for permanent teeth and losing one too early may bring a problem with the permanent teeth.