A pulpotomy is a dental procedure that is performed on a tooth that has a diseased or damaged pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels).
The goal of a pulpotomy is to remove the diseased pulp and preserve the healthy parts of the tooth. This is typically done to save the tooth and prevent the need for extraction.
This procedure is known as a baby root canal because it’s so similar to a root canal. However, an actual root canal removes the entire pulp and roots to replace them with another material. With a pulpotomy, the natural tooth is saved. This is vital for the proper development of a child’s adult teeth.
Signs of a Damaged Dental Pulp
The dental pulp is the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. If this tissue becomes damaged or infected, it can cause pain and discomfort and can lead to the loss of the tooth if not treated.
Here are some signs that a child may have damaged dental pulp:
- Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
- Pain when chewing or biting down
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums
- A bad taste in the mouth
- A pimple-like bump on the gums
- Darkening of the tooth
If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. The dentist will be able to determine the cause of the symptoms and recommend the appropriate treatment.
This may include a pulpotomy (a procedure to remove the damaged pulp and save the tooth), or a root canal (a more extensive procedure to remove the entire pulp and clean and fill the tooth). It is important to treat dental pulp damage as soon as possible in order to save the tooth and prevent further complications.
Is a Pulpotomy Safe for Children?
A pulpotomy is a standard treatment for children with a cavity that has reached the tooth's pulp. If the pulp becomes infected or damaged, it can cause pain and discomfort and can lead to the loss of the tooth if not treated.
A pulpotomy helps alleviate these symptoms and saves the tooth. If your child needs a pulpotomy, the dentist will numb the area around the tooth to make the procedure as painless as possible. They will then make an opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp. The diseased pulp will be removed, and the area will be cleaned and disinfected. The dentist may then place the medication in the pulp chamber to help heal, and a temporary filling will be placed to protect the tooth. In some cases, a crown (a cap that covers the tooth) may be placed on the tooth to provide additional protection.
After the procedure, your child may experience some discomfort, swelling, or sensitivity to hot and cold. These symptoms should improve over time and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
It’s important to follow your dentist's instructions for caring for the tooth and maintaining good oral hygiene. This will help to ensure the success of the pulpotomy and prevent the need for further treatment.
Learn More About Pulpotomy for Children
We know going to the dentist is hard for children. Often, procedures and treatments are scary, but parents can help calm their nerves by being well-informed of the procedures and explaining it to their children.
To learn more about pulpotomy for children, call Tender Smiles 4 Kids at your most convenient location to make an appointment:
Freehold Office: 732-625-8080
North Brunswick Office: 732-249-1010
Edison Office: 732-549-3773
Roselle Office: 908-245-5556
Ocean Office: 732-774-7008