Pulpotomy is an endodontic procedure that is most often performed on deciduous (baby) teeth. This treatment is needed when deep tooth decay reaches the pulp inside of a tooth, causing an infection called pulpitis.
Why Pulpotomies Are Needed
The pulp is rich in blood vessels and nerve endings, so when infection spreads to this tissue and it becomes inflamed, it causes severe dental pain. At times, the pain may be so severe that it cannot be relieved with over-the-counter pain medications.
When a child has pulpitis, a decision must be made whether to extract the infected tooth or perform a pulpotomy. If your child is at an age where their adult tooth is likely to erupt soon, an extraction is usually recommended. For a younger child, if a tooth is extracted, a space maintainer is needed to keep adjacent teeth from drifting into the space created by the extraction. A pulpotomy preserves space for the permanent teeth to erupt and prevents orthodontic issues without a space maintenance appliance.
What Happens During a Pulpotomy
To ensure your child’s comfort, we numb their tooth and the surrounding area with local anesthetic. If needed, we offer dental sedation to help them relax during their treatment. A pulpotomy is a relatively simple endodontic procedure that involves opening the infected tooth, removing the pulp from the crown, and placing a medicated dressing inside the tooth chamber to promote healing and prevent the spread of infection. We will place a temporary restoration, then your child will go to their dentist for a crown or dental filling.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pulpotomies
Is a pulpotomy the same as a root canal?
Does my child need a pulpotomy?
How long does a pulpotomy last?
Is pulpotomy painful?
Can you eat after a pulpotomy?
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