What Is A Pulpotomy
A pulpotomy, also called a baby root canal, is a simple dental procedure to save baby teeth that have been severely damaged or infected. Just like adult teeth, baby teeth have a pulp layer, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When tooth decay or trauma allows bacteria to reach the pulp tissues, it may cause extreme pain and discomfort, especially when chewing food.
If left untreated, the infection may spread beyond the affected tooth and put the surrounding teeth at risk. For this reason, we recommend pulpotomy, during which we remove the infected pulp tissues from the crown (upper part) of the tooth. This procedure not only provides immediate pain relief but also allows your child to keep their tooth until it naturally falls out to make way for a permanent one.
Signs Your Child Might Need a Pulpotomy
Here are some of the signs that can indicate an underlying pulp infection:
- Persistent or sharp toothache
- Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks
- Pain when chewing or biting
- Increased tenderness in the tooth
- Swelling in the gums or face near the affected tooth
- Holding the cheek, crying at night, or disrupted sleep
If your child shows any of these symptoms, the best approach is to consult our Katy team and learn whether a pulpotomy can save your child’s teeth. Early intervention can also help prevent further damage.
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What Happens During A Baby Root Canal
At the time of your child’s visit, we will first discuss their symptoms and examine their teeth and gums. We may also take digital X-rays to look for visible signs of a pulp infection. If the pulp tissues are involved, we will start by numbing your child’s tooth, ensuring they don’t experience any discomfort.
Once the area is fully numb, our pediatric dentist will gently remove the infected portion of the pulp from the crown (top part) of the tooth, while leaving the healthy pulp tissues intact. We will thoroughly clean the area to eliminate any remaining bacteria. Finally, we will place a crown on the tooth to protect it from further damage.
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