What to Expect as a Parent During a Pulpotomy Procedure?

What is Pulpotomy?

A pulpotomy is a procedure where the dentist removes part of the tooth’s inside to prevent or treat an infection. In children, it’s often done to keep the baby tooth in place until it falls out naturally. Dentists usually only do pulpotomies on baby teeth because different procedures are needed for adult teeth.

When Might a Child Need a Pulpotomy?

Pulpotomy is done when a deep cavity in a baby tooth reaches the nerve. Baby teeth are softer than adult teeth and can get cavities more easily. Removing the infected part can help save the tooth and avoid pulling it out.

Baby teeth help keep space for the adult teeth that come after. This is why many dentists recommend a pulpotomy instead of pulling the baby tooth. It’s important to keep baby teeth for future development.

If your child has a deep cavity, they might complain about a toothache. The pain can be pretty bad. There are usually signs of a decayed tooth, like:

• Sensitivity to hot and cold.
• Trouble focusing at school.
• Tooth discoloration.
• Bad breath.
• Bleeding gums.
• General toothache.

If you see any of these signs, you should make an appointment with your dentist right away.

What is the Procedure of Pulpotomy?

Your dentist will take an X-ray to see if you need a pulpotomy or another procedure.

General dentists usually do pulpotomies or root canals. If you need a specialist, your dentist will refer you to an endodontist.

Your dentist might give you antibiotics to take 3 or 4 days before and after the procedure.

What Kind of Anesthesia is Used for Pulpotomy?

Young children might need general anesthesia or light sedation.

Nitrous oxide, often called “laughing gas,” is used for light sedation to make the procedure more comfortable.

If you need general anesthesia or light sedation, the dentist or endodontist will give you instructions on how to prepare.

These instructions will tell you when to stop eating and drinking. Usually, it’s 6 hours before general anesthesia and 2 to 3 hours before light sedation. If general anesthesia is used, an oral surgeon might do the procedure.

How to Prepare Your Child for the Procedure?

Getting ready for any dental procedure can be really scary, especially for children.

If your child needs a pulpotomy, they might already have a toothache. Let them know that this procedure will make the pain go away.

Also, let them know that the procedure won’t hurt and will only take about half an hour to 45 minutes.

What Can You Expect from the Procedure as a Parent?

• Before the procedure starts, your dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic. This shot usually doesn’t hurt much; you might just feel a quick pinch.
• If anesthesia is being used, it will be given to your child in the dentist’s chair. It can be through a nosepiece for light sedation or an injection in the arm for general anesthesia.
• The dentist will remove the decayed part of the tooth with a drill.
• They will drill through the outer layers of the tooth until they reach the pulp.
• The infected material inside the tooth will be scooped out and removed.
• The empty space where the pulp was will be filled with dental cement to seal it.
• A stainless steel crown will be cemented onto the tooth to cover it.