A pulpotomy, often referred to as a "baby root canal," is a common dental procedure performed on children to treat or prevent further decay of their primary (baby) teeth. This treatment involves the removal of the diseased pulp tissue within the crown portion of a tooth. The aim is to preserve the vitality of the remaining pulp tissue and prevent premature loss of baby teeth, which play a crucial role in the proper alignment and spacing of permanent teeth. Performed by experienced pediatric dentists in Los Angeles like Dr. Anna Shahinian and Dr. Sia Novshadian at Smile Buds Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, pulpotomies can help maintain your child's oral health and beautiful smile.
If your child is complaining of tooth pain or sensitivity, it might be due to an extensive cavity or injury that has affected the pulp of the tooth. In such cases, a pulpotomy can save your little one’s smile. This procedure effectively eliminates pain and infection, preserving the affected tooth and preventing the need for extraction. Timely pulpotomies can save your child from potential discomfort, embarrassment, and future orthodontic treatment.
One of the primary benefits of a pulpotomy is immediate pain relief. Tooth decay can cause severe discomfort in children. By removing the infected pulp, the source of the pain is eliminated. This allows your child to eat, sleep, and play comfortably again without the constant distress of a toothache.
Baby teeth serve as placeholders for the permanent teeth. Losing them prematurely can lead to spacing issues and misalignment of the permanent teeth. A pulpotomy helps preserve these essential baby teeth, ensuring proper alignment and spacing for future adult teeth.
If left untreated, the infection in the pulp can spread to the surrounding tissues and even the permanent tooth developing underneath. A pulpotomy stops this infection in its tracks, preventing further damage and potential loss of other teeth.
The first step in a pulpotomy treatment is diagnosing the need for the procedure. This is done through a thorough examination and X-rays. Once the need for a pulpotomy is confirmed, local anesthesia is administered to numb the area and ensure your child's comfort during the procedure.
The next step involves removing the decayed part of the tooth and the infected pulp within the crown of the tooth. This is done carefully to avoid affecting the healthy pulp in the root of the tooth.
After the removal of the infected pulp, a medicament is placed to maintain the vitality of the remaining pulp and prevent bacterial growth. The tooth is then sealed with a dental crown to provide strength and prevent future decay.
A pulpotomy can save a severely decayed baby tooth, ensuring proper jaw development and space for incoming permanent teeth.
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After a pulpotomy, it's important to maintain good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and routine dental check-ups. Avoiding sticky or hard candies and maintaining a balanced diet can also help prevent further decay and promote overall dental health.
