A pulpotomy, sometimes referred to as a baby root canal, is a procedure used to treat an infected tooth. It is performed on primary (baby) teeth that will eventually fall out, so it is designed to last until that happens. 

If your child needs a pulpotomy, you may be wondering how long it will last. Here’s what you can expect. 

What is a Pulpotomy? 

A pulpotomy is used to treat an infected tooth. An infection occurs when bacteria invades the inner chamber of the tooth and reaches the dental pulp, soft tissue made up of blood vessels and nerves. During a pulpotomy the infected portion of the pulp is removed from the crown of the tooth and a medicated dressing is placed inside. The medication treats and prevents infection in the remaining dental pulp. 

How Long Does a Pulpotomy Take? 

A pulpotomy is a relatively short endodontic procedure. It usually takes no more than 30-40 minutes to complete. Local anesthesia is used to numb the tooth being treated and sedation is available to help the child relax if needed. 

How Long Will the Results of a Pulpotomy Last? 

A pulpotomy is designed to last until the tooth naturally falls out on its own when the permanent tooth is ready to come in. The amount of time until this occurs may vary, so most pulpotomy procedures will last for an average of 5 years. There is always a possibility that the tooth could become reinfected during this time and require further treatment. 

Will the Tooth Need a Crown After a Pulpotomy?

The tooth will most likely be fitted with a stainless steel crown following a pulpotomy. Stainless steel crowns are silver in color and are more affordable than porcelain crowns. Since the tooth will eventually fall out, it makes less sense to use a more expensive porcelain crown. 

Is a Pulpotomy Worth It?

A pulpotomy preserves the tooth so that it can stay in place in the child’s mouth until it is ready to be naturally shed. Extracting a tooth before it is ready leaves a gap in the mouth that may allow the other teeth to shift out of place. A space maintainer would be required to hold the place for the permanent tooth to come in. In most cases a pulpotomy is recommended over extraction, unless the tooth is ready to fall out soon. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Pulpotomies

Can a dentist perform a pulpotomy?

Some dentists may have the training and experience to perform pulpotomies. But an endodontist specializes in this procedure, which could increase the chances of success and help the tooth last longer. 

Is a pulpotomy just a root canal?

A pulpotomy is slightly different from a root canal. During a root canal procedure all of the dental pulp is removed from the tooth and replacement material fills the tooth. A root canal is meant to be a long term restoration for a permanent tooth so that it will last for many years. A pulpotomy only removes some of the dental pulp and treats the infection with the goal of helping the tooth last for a few years until it falls out naturally. 

Where Can My Child Get a Pulpotomy? 

A pulpotomy is an endodontic procedure that is performed by an endodontist. An endodontist specializes in saving teeth by treating the dental pulp, making them highly qualified to perform pulpotomies. 

Heart of Texas Endodontics provides pulpotomy procedures for children who have teeth that are infected or at risk of infection. Our doctors are highly qualified and experienced with this and other endodontic procedures for children as well as adults. 

Call 254-778-4400 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment. 

A pulpotomy, also known as a baby root canal, is a procedure performed on an infected primary tooth. It is a restorative procedure that can prolong the life of the tooth until it is ready to be naturally shed to make room for the permanent tooth. 

If your child has a toothache, they may need a pulpotomy. Learn what a pulpotomy is and why it is important for your child’s oral health. 

Pulpotomy: What it is and Why it is Necessary 

At the center of each tooth, contained inside the root canal, is the dental pulp. This soft tissue contains blood vessels and nerves that sustain the tooth and keep it healthy. If bacteria invades the root canal through a deep cavity or crack in the tooth, it can infect the dental pulp, resulting in a painful toothache. 

A pulpotomy is a procedure used to treat the infection. Through a small hole made in the crown of the tooth the infected pulp is removed and an antibiotic dressing is placed in the root canal to protect the remaining pulp from infection. The hole in the tooth is filled and sealed off for protection. 

Is it Worth Saving a Baby Tooth? 

Parents often wonder why it is necessary to perform a pulpotomy on a baby tooth rather than extract it. The reason a pulpotomy is beneficial is that it saves the tooth and allows it to remain in place until it is ready to fall out on its own. Baby teeth are important placeholders for the permanent teeth. When they fall out or are extracted early, the other teeth can shift into the gap and block the permanent tooth from coming in. A pulpotomy can prevent the need for a space maintainer. 

Pulpotomy vs Root Canal

There are a few differences between a pulpotomy and root canal. When a tooth gets a root canal, all of the dental pulp is removed, not just the infection portion. A root canal also includes a filler material that completely replaces the dental pulp. Root canals are typically only performed on permanent teeth, whereas pulpotomies are performed on primary teeth. 

Anesthesia Required for a Pulpotomy

Local anesthesia is normally sufficient to prevent any discomfort during a pulpotomy. Children who are anxious, fearful, or have difficulty sitting still for longer periods of time can benefit from nitrous oxide. Nitrous oxide provides a light level of sedation that can help children relax and feel more calm during the procedure. It wears off immediately afterwards so that they can resume their regular daily activities. 

Who Performs Pulpotomies? 

A pulpotomy is primarily performed by an endodontist, a dentist who specializes in treating the dental pulp inside the teeth. Heart of Texas Endodontics provides services for patients of all ages, including pulpotomies for children. 

To learn more, call 254-778-4400 or contact us today to schedule an appointment. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Pulpotomies

What is recovery like after a pulpotomy?

A pulpotomy is very similar to a cavity filling in terms of recovery. It may take a few hours for the local anesthesia to wear off, but after that your child will most likely feel fine. If they experience any discomfort, over the counter pain medication should be sufficient. A diet of liquids and soft foods may be helpful for the first 24-48 hours. 

How long will a pulpotomy last?

In most cases a pulpotomy will last long enough for the tooth to remain healthy until it falls out naturally. The permanent tooth will eventually push it out of place when it is ready to come in and most of the time that happens before any additional treatment is needed.