Restorative Pediatric Dentist in Poway, CA
Does Your Child Have a Persistent Toothache?
Visit Im Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in Poway for Relief
Toothaches are caused by inflammation or infection of the soft, inner portion of tooth (also known as the pulp). If your child is experiencing pain, know that it’s normal. The pulp can become infected for a variety of reasons like tooth decay or even a chipped tooth.
With endodontic dentistry, commonly referred to as root canal therapy, Dr. Ellen can remove infected pulp and seal the tooth, so your child’s smile is returned to good health—without pain!
How to Know If Your Child
Needs a Root Canal
Signs That Your Child Is in Need of Dental Treatment
Gentle Treatment
What to Expect During a Pediatric Root Canal
Dr. Ellen begins by applying a local anesthesia to your child’s tooth which numbs the area during the procedure at our Poway office. Although root canals have a notorious reputation, modern dental methods have rendered them pain-free.
After the anesthesia kicks in, Dr. Ellen makes a small hole in the tooth to remove the infected pulp. Then she cleans the empty root canal and applies anti-bacterial medication to prevent further infection. Finally, she fills the tooth with gutta-percha—a rubbery material—that seals the canal.
Once the infected root is removed and sealed, Dr. Ellen will fit your child with a crown. A crown is a tooth-shaped fitting that sits over the tooth and restores the natural look, feel and function of your child’s tooth.
Conservative Care
With an Eye on Comfort
Your Child Is in Good Hands at Im Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
Dr. Ellen uses minimally invasive treatments with a goal of preserving your child’s natural tooth as much as possible, while providing a comforting, gentle experience. In fact, with modern dental methods, your child’s root canal won’t be any more uncomfortable than a cavity filling.
And, during the appointment, we’ll help put your child at ease with creature comforts, like a warm blanket to snuggle up in, and sunglasses if the examination light seems a little too bright. We also have distractions, including headphones, TVs, iPads and kids’ books at our Poway office.
Testimonials
"Dr. Im and her staff are excellent. They are all so friendly and really know how to make my children and me comfortable throughout the entire visit!"
"The office staff is super nice and willing to work with you on appt scheduling, payments, anything! I had a ton of questions and they were all answered promptly and politely."
"They take extra care with the kids and are very patient with them. Not a tear shed during the experience. I highly recommend them!"
"My daughter was anxious about going to the dentist for the first time, but Dr. Im made her feel very comfortable by making her smile and laugh."
"Still absolutely love this dentist. Each chair has a TV screen or an iPad with Netflix and my daughter never wants to leave! We were expected to have a 4-6 month orthodontia treatment and 5 months later she's done!"
"Dr. Im and her staff are awesome. My children feel very comfortable here. My daughters always look forward to retrieving their prize at the end of their check up. I wouldn't take my kids anywhere else."
"Dr. Ellen is excellent! Definitely, hands down the best pediatric office! My Son had to get some treatment done and without a doubt Dr. Ellen was extremely caring and fun!"
"Dr. Ellen Im is a dentist that is extremely careful and caring to her patients. I highly suggest you go here because it is a great dentistry and the prices are pretty cheap considering this dentistry is amazing."
"Dr. Ellen Im is the most caring dentist I have ever met. My daughter loves coming to see her and we would never think to go anywhere else. She is amazing with the kids and takes her time. Her staff is wonderful and friendly."
"Dr. Ellen is amazing! My boys all loved her and felt comfortable around her. Which is a very big deal. I recommend anybody who wants to take their children to a dentist who will actually care about your child, to see them."
"My two girls have been with Dr Ellen I’m since their first dentist visit! We love going to the dentist. The staff is so friendly and responsive to any of our concerns. We’ve also had one daughter in braces for two sessions a d it’s been a very positive experience. Can’t say enough about this gem in Poway!"
"Dr Ellen Im has a heart of gold. I have been bringing my boys (now 14 & 17) for the past 11 years. She is always thoughtful, understanding, respectful to her patients needs and parents concerns. Her team are all very kind, caring and professional. I highly recommend her to anyone who needs a referral ❤️"
"I took my son to Dr. Ellen Im Pediatric Dentistry for the first time, and it was an amazing experience! Dr. Ellen is incredibly skilled, patient, and so gentle. My son was completely calm throughout the visit—he never protested at all, which is a huge win for us! I could tell he felt comfortable and at ease with her gentle touch. Her staff was also fantastic—super friendly, welcoming, and professional. From start to finish, everything was smooth and stress-free. I’m beyond grateful to have found this clinic and highly recommend Dr. Ellen to any parent looking for a wonderful pediatric dentist!"
"I had an exceptional experience bringing my children in for their recall appointments yesterday, and I can't recommend this office enough! From the moment we walked in, we were greeted by a warm and welcoming pediatric front team. The office is spotless, well-organized, and creates such a pleasant atmosphere. Julie, the dental assistant, was so friendly and took amazing care of one of my children—she truly made them feel at ease. Dr. Ellen was incredible, getting us in for same-day treatment to take care of a filling. The wait was minimal, and we were treated with such kindness and patience throughout the entire visit. I had mentally prepared for a potentially difficult experience, but to my surprise, the treatment went smoothly, and we left the treatment room feeling calm and happy. To top it off, Christian, the Orthodontic Coordinator, managed to fit in an orthodontic consult with Dr. Chanard during the same visit, even though it was very time-sensitive. I truly appreciated how efficiently everything was handled and how well they managed our time. Overall, it was a fantastic experience, and I highly recommend this office for anyone looking for top-notch dental and orthodontic care!"
"We have been going to Dr Ellen for the last 7-8 years now and we love her and her team. Everyone is always friendly and kind. The offices are very clean and we are always in and out quickly. Not rushed, just efficient. No child wants to sit at the dentist longer than they have to and my son leaves in a good mood with a fun toy for being good."
"We absolutely love this dental office! The service is exceptional, and the ambiance is warm and welcoming. The owner is always so friendly and smiling—she truly knows how to make kids feel comfortable. It’s no secret that many kids dread going to the dentist, but mine are the complete opposite! The moment I tell them it’s time for a visit, they get excited and can’t wait to go. It’s amazing to see a dental office that creates such a positive experience for children. Highly recommend!"
"This is by far the BEST pediatric dentist I've ever taken my children to. Heck, I'm mad they can't take me in too, in all honesty But really, I was actually complimenting one of the dental technicians just the other day as I took my son in for his ortho appointment. The atmosphere is always chipper and harmonious. Everybody is extremely professional, polite, and knowledgeable. The facility is always clean. Pricing is fair and follow up appointments are regularly scheduled with no issues. The care is outstanding every time we call or visit. I mean, what more can you really want? The location is convenient and parking is plentiful. Again, I'm just mad they won't take care of my adult teeth "
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