Pulpotomy in Pediatric Dentistry

Have you ever wondered how dentists save baby teeth that are severely decayed but still important for your child’s oral health? That’s where a pulpotomy comes in! This common procedure in pediatric dentistry helps preserve your child’s teeth and ensures a healthy smile.

What Is a Pulpotomy?

A pulpotomy is a dental procedure performed on a baby tooth when decay or infection has reached the pulp, the soft tissue inside the tooth. Unlike a full root canal, a pulpotomy removes only the infected part of the pulp while leaving the healthy pulp intact. This helps maintain the tooth’s structure and function until it naturally falls out.

Why Is a Pulpotomy Necessary?

Baby teeth, or primary teeth, play an essential role in:

• Guiding Permanent Teeth: They hold space for adult teeth to erupt in the correct position.
• Chewing and Speaking: Healthy teeth are important for proper chewing and speech development.
• Jaw Development: Baby teeth support the jaw’s growth and alignment.

If a decayed baby tooth is removed too early, it can lead to alignment issues or difficulty eating and speaking. A pulpotomy helps avoid these problems by preserving the tooth.

Signs Your Child May Need a Pulpotomy

1. Toothache

Persistent pain in a tooth could indicate deep decay that has reached the pulp.

2. Sensitivity

If your child’s tooth is sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods, it may need treatment.

3. Swelling or Infection

Swollen gums or a pimple-like bump near the tooth could signal an infection in the pulp.

How Is a Pulpotomy Performed?

Step 1: Numbing the Area

The dentist uses a local anesthetic to ensure your child is comfortable throughout the procedure.

Step 2: Removing the Decay

The decayed part of the tooth and the infected portion of the pulp are carefully removed.

Step 3: Applying Medication

A special medicated material is placed in the remaining pulp to prevent further infection and promote healing.

Step 4: Restoring the Tooth

The tooth is typically covered with a stainless steel crown to protect it and restore its function.

Why Choose a Dentist in Tijuana for Your Child’s Pulpotomy?

Visiting a dentist in Tijuana ensures access to skilled dental specialists at an affordable cost. Our dental clinic offers a child-friendly atmosphere and advanced techniques to make the procedure as stress-free as possible.

Benefits of a Pulpotomy

1. Saves the Tooth

A pulpotomy preserves the baby tooth until it’s ready to fall out naturally.

2. Prevents Misalignment

Keeping the tooth in place helps avoid shifting of nearby teeth and alignment problems.

3. Promotes Oral Health

Treating the infection prevents it from spreading to other teeth or affecting overall health.

How to Care for Your Child’s Tooth After a Pulpotomy

• Encourage gentle brushing and flossing around the treated tooth.
• Avoid sticky or hard foods that could damage the crown.
• Schedule regular checkups with your dentist in Tijuana to monitor your child’s oral health.

Conclusion

A pulpotomy is a safe and effective way to treat infected baby teeth while maintaining their function and health. If your child has a toothache or other signs of decay, don’t wait—visit our dental clinic in Tijuana. Our team of experienced dental specialists is here to provide gentle, expert care for your little one. Schedule an appointment today and give your child the gift of a healthy smile!