Saving Baby Teeth with Pulpotomy in Gig Harbor
When a cavity reaches the nerve inside a baby tooth, a pulpotomy saves the tooth by removing only the infected pulp tissue while preserving healthy roots and structure. Sometimes called a "baby root canal," the procedure at The Kids' Dentist Gig Harbor is gentler and faster than it sounds. The goal is to keep the tooth functional until it is ready to fall out on its own, protecting spacing and development in the meantime.
Signs Your Child May Need a Pulpotomy
A pulpotomy is indicated when decay has reached the pulp (nerve and blood supply inside the tooth) but has not yet spread into the roots. Watch for:
- A toothache that lingers, especially at night or when lying down
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks
- X-ray showing a deep cavity near or touching the nerve
- Swelling or a bump on the gum near the affected tooth
- Pain when biting or chewing on that side
How the Procedure Works
Pulpotomies are routine in pediatric dentistry and are completed in a single visit:
- The tooth is numbed with local anesthesia (sedation available)
- Decayed material is removed from the tooth
- Infected nerve tissue in the crown portion is carefully taken out
- Medicated material is placed over the remaining healthy pulp
- A pediatric crown is cemented the same day for protection
Start to finish, the appointment runs about 30 to 45 minutes. Most kids feel fine afterward and go right back to normal activities.
Why Not Just Pull the Tooth?
Baby teeth do more than chew food. They hold space for permanent teeth, guide jaw development, and support clear speech. When a baby tooth is lost too early, neighboring teeth can drift into the gap, creating crowding and alignment problems that may require orthodontic treatment later. A pulpotomy keeps the tooth in place until nature is ready to replace it.
Recovery After a Pulpotomy
Mild sensitivity for a day or two is normal and responds well to children's ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Because the crown is placed the same day, the tooth is immediately protected and your child can chew on it as soon as the numbness fades.
Pulpotomy Questions
A pulpotomy removes infected nerve tissue from the crown of the tooth only. A full root canal (pulpectomy) removes tissue from the roots as well. Pulpotomies are less invasive and are the standard approach for baby teeth where the roots are still healthy.
Ready to Schedule Your Child’s Visit?
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