Pulpotomy

What Is a Pulpotomy?

A pulpotomy is a common dental procedure that saves a baby tooth when decay or injury has reached the pulp — the soft tissue inside the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels. Think of it as a gentler version of a root canal, designed specifically for primary (baby) teeth.

During the procedure, we remove only the infected or inflamed pulp from the crown portion of the tooth, leaving the healthy pulp in the roots intact. This allows the tooth to remain in place until it naturally falls out on its own schedule.

Why Baby Teeth Matter

Many parents wonder if treating a baby tooth is worth it when it will eventually fall out anyway. The answer is yes. Baby teeth hold space for permanent teeth, help your child chew properly, and support normal speech development. Losing a baby tooth too early can lead to crowding and alignment issues later.

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When a Pulpotomy Is Needed

We may recommend a pulpotomy when:

• Deep decay has reached the pulp but hasn't spread to the roots
• Trauma or injury has exposed the pulp tissue
• Pain or sensitivity indicates pulp inflammation
• The tooth has several years before it naturally falls out

The goal is always to preserve the natural tooth whenever possible, avoiding the need for a space maintainer or other interventions.

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What to Expect

We make the experience as comfortable as possible for your child. After numbing the area, we gently remove the affected pulp tissue, clean and disinfect the chamber, and seal it with a medicated material. The tooth is then restored with a crown to protect it and restore full function.

Most children experience immediate relief from any pain or discomfort they had before the procedure. Recovery is typically quick, and your child can return to normal activities the same day.