Skip to main content

Dental Infections, Pediatric

Johnny I. Kuttab, DDS Reviewed 10/2018
 


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

A dental infection is an acute or chronic inflammatory response of the dental pulp (pulpitis) tissue caused by the invasion of bacteria secondary to caries or trauma. Pulpal infectio...

DIAGNOSIS

HISTORY

  • Nocturnal pain

    • Waking up due to pain

  • Inability to eat due to pain

  • Sensitivity to cold

  • Fever

  • Swelling

  • Pain secondary to reversible pulpitis

    • Typically, symptoms of reversible pulpitis include ...

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

Space maintenance 
  • Space maintenance is important to allow proper growth and development of the permanent teeth.

  • The primary tooth is the best space maintainer.

  • Without opposing...

ONGOING CARE

FOLLOW-UP RECOMMENDATIONS

  • Referral to pediatric dentist for treatment

    • Extraction, root canal therapy, restorative treatment

  • Thorough dental workup for other caries

  • Resolution of abscess/swell...

ADDITIONAL READING

CODES

ICD9

  • 522.0 Pulpitis

  • 522.1 Necrosis of the pulp

  • 522.5 Periapical abscess without sinus

  • 523.30 Aggressive periodontitis, unspecified

ICD10

  • K04.0 Pulpitis

  • K04.1 Necrosis of pulp

  • K04.7 Periapical abscess wi...

FAQ

  • Q: It’s just a baby tooth. Isn’t it going to fall out?

  • A: Dental pain can affect a child’s daily activities, leading to delayed growth and development and diminished ability to learn. Delayed treat...

Subscribe to Access Full Content

Sign Up for a 10-Day Free Trial

Sign up for a 10-day FREE Trial now and receive full access to all content.

×