What is a Pulpotomy?
A pulpotomy is a treatment used on primary (baby) teeth when tooth decay has reached the pulp, or inner nerve tissue, but hasn’t damaged the root of the tooth. Instead of removing the entire pulp, our pediatric dentists carefully remove only the infected portion inside the crown of the tooth. This preserves the healthy root structure, allowing the tooth to stay in place until it’s naturally ready to fall out.
Because baby teeth play such an important role in guiding permanent teeth into place, maintaining them whenever possible is key for long-term oral health.
Signs Your Child May Need a Pulpotomy
A pulpotomy may be necessary if your child is experiencing:
- Persistent tooth pain – especially sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweets.
- Visible deep cavities that extend beyond the enamel.
- Swelling or redness in the gums near the affected tooth.
- Nighttime pain or waking up due to tooth discomfort.
- Sudden changes in eating habits because chewing causes pain.
During your child’s exam, our doctors will take X-rays and evaluate the tooth to determine if a pulpotomy is the right course of treatment.
Why a Pulpotomy is Beneficial
- Relieves Pain Quickly
A pulpotomy removes the inflamed tissue that causes discomfort, so children often feel relief almost immediately.
- Preserves the Natural Tooth
Instead of extracting the tooth, we maintain it to support chewing, speech, and the alignment of permanent teeth.
- Prevents Further Infection
Treating the pulp early stops the spread of decay that could otherwise affect the roots, surrounding teeth, or even your child’s overall health.
The Treatment Process
- Gentle Numbing and Comfort
We use kid-friendly techniques and, when needed, sedation options are offered to keep children relaxed and comfortable.
- Removal of Infected Pulp
The dentist carefully removes the affected portion of the pulp while leaving the healthy root structure intact.
- Sealing and Protection
The tooth is sealed with a medicated material and then restored, often with a full coverage crown, to protect it until it naturally falls out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a pulpotomy painful for my child?
No. The procedure is done under local anesthesia, and many children also benefit from sedation to keep them comfortable. Most kids return to their normal activities right after the appointment.
Why not just pull the tooth instead?
Baby teeth are critical for chewing, speech development, and holding space for permanent teeth. Early extraction can cause shifting, crowding, or orthodontic problems down the line.
How long does a pulpotomy last?
With proper care, a pulpotomy can preserve a tooth until it’s ready to fall out naturally. Crowns used afterward are durable and designed to withstand the normal wear and tear of childhood.
What happens if we don’t treat the tooth?
Delaying treatment can cause infection to spread to the roots, leading to an abscess, pain, and potential damage to developing permanent teeth. Early loss of primary teeth can also lead to space loss for the permanent tooth which then can result in more complex orthodontic needs.
Compassionate Pediatric Care in San Antonio
At Alamo Heights Pediatric Dentistry, our philosophy is conservative yet thorough: we treat every child as if they were our own. If a pulpotomy is recommended, you can trust that it’s the best way to keep your child’s smile healthy, pain-free, and growing strong.
If your child has been complaining of tooth pain or you’ve noticed signs of deep decay, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment with our team today and let us help protect your child’s smile with gentle, compassionate care.
