What Is Pulpotomy? A Guide to Its Symptoms and Treatment

A pulpotomy is a procedure that can help save decayed or infected teeth. If you or your child has a cavity and infection of the tooth's pulp, your dentist may recommend a pulpotomy.

Dentists often use this procedure on the primary teeth of children, but it's also an option for adults. A pulpotomy treats severe decay that has spread to the pulp of the tooth.

If you're wondering, "What is pulpotomy, and can it help me?", read our pulpotomy guide for the answers.

Purpose of a Pulpotomy

If you or your child feels pain or discomfort when hot, cold, or sweet things touch your tooth or teeth, it could be pulpitis.

Pulpitis is an inflammation of the pulp and is usually a result of untreated cavities. Tooth sensitivity is often the first sign of the problem.

After performing a dental examination, your dentist will recommend the proper treatment for you. If you or your child has tooth decay that has infected the pulp area, a pulpotomy may be a good option.

Your dentist may choose a pulpotomy if the decay is close to the pulp and if removing the decay will expose the pulp. If the pulpitis is irreversible, your dentist may decide to perform a pulpectomy or tooth extraction instead.

What Is Pulpotomy vs. Pulpectomy

These procedures are performed for different reasons. A pulpotomy involves the partial removal of pulp from a tooth. A pulpectomy involves the complete removal of the pulp from a tooth and is the first step of root canal treatment.

If your dentist determines a tooth's pulp has died or has become infected, they may recommend a root canal. This involves the removal of all the diseased pulp in the crown and roots.

Pulp damage could be due to trauma, decay, or a crack that leaves the pulp exposed. When bacteria enters the pulp, it can lead to an infection that can spread to the surrounding bone.

When this happens, the only treatment besides pulpectomy or root canal is tooth removal.

Adult Pulpotomy

A pulpotomy is less expensive and invasive than a root canal. The success of the procedure depends on how well the dentist controls bleeding and keeps the pulp free from bacteria as they perform the procedure.

Age is also a factor. The pulp of older adults is fibrous and has less blood supply. This can lower the chances for a successful result.

Child Pulpotomy

A pulpotomy leaves the tooth's roots intact and able to grow. For this reason, it's a popular option for children.

Its primary use is in children with primary (baby) teeth. The primary teeth play a valuable role in maintaining spacing for permanent teeth as they come in. That's why dentists want to leave baby teeth intact whenever possible.

The procedure can also be used on the secondary teeth of older children and adults as long as there's enough healthy pulp to keep the tooth vital.

Pulpotomy Explained

Your dentist will take X-rays to determine the extent of the problem and the best type of treatment. General dentists often perform pulpotomies and root canals.

If you need a specialist, your dentist will refer you to an endodontist. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics for you to take a few days before and after your procedure.

Anesthesia

Some children or adults may require general anesthesia or mild sedation during a pulpotomy. Nitrous oxide, or "laughing gas," can help you relax and feel more comfortable during the procedure.

What to Expect

Before the procedure, the dentist numbs the area using a local anesthetic. This doesn't hurt, but you may feel a slight pinch.

Patients who use anesthesia may receive it through a nosepiece or an injection. The dentist then removes the decayed area of the tooth.

The dentist will drill through the enamel and dentin layers of the tooth until the pulp is exposed. The infected material is then scooped out and removed.

The dentist fills the space with dental cement to seal the tooth. A crown is cemented onto the tooth. This becomes the outer surface of the tooth.

Aftercare of Pulpotomy Treatment

During the procedure, your tooth and gums will be numbed. You won't feel any pain. If you receive anesthesia, the dental staff will monitor you for up to an hour after the procedure.

Avoid eating and drinking while your mouth is numb. You may notice some mild bleeding for a few hours.

Once you can eat, stick to soft foods like soup, mashed potatoes, or scrambled eggs. Avoid chewing on the side where your procedure took place until your mouth has fully healed.

It's normal to experience mild pain or discomfort as the anesthesia wears off. Taking an over-the-counter pain medication like Tylenol or Motrin will help.

Mild swelling is normal after a pulpotomy. If you experience excessive swelling or new pain, redness, or swelling days or weeks following the procedure, call your dentist. These symptoms can indicate infection.

Find a Dentist in Friendswood, TX

Pulpotomy is a common dental procedure used to save a severely decayed tooth. Dentists commonly do pulpotomies on children with decayed baby teeth, but the procedure is used for older children and adults as well.

You now know the answer to "What is pulpotomy?" It's less invasive than a root canal, and dentists use pulpotomy treatment to remove the infected pulp and restore teeth.

If you need dental care, we'd love to help. We are dedicated to providing the very best dental care for children and adults. We provide a variety of dental services for patients of all ages.

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First Aid for Dental Injuries in Kids

By Dentistry 4 Children • March 17, 2025

According to Child Stats, it is estimated that three million kids go to the emergency room for injuries yearly. Dental injuries, in particular, are common in children, especially those who are active in sports, playground activities, or simply exploring their surroundings. Knowing what to do and how to respond to a dental emergency can be hectic if you do not know what to do. But if you act fast and have a plan, you can prevent complications, minimize pain, and even save a tooth. Understanding first aid for dental injuries can help parents and your local family dentist provide immediate care before seeking professional treatment at a trusted pediatric dentist in Pearland . Common Types of Dental Injuries in Kids Children can experience various dental injuries, ranging from minor chips to severe trauma that requires emergency dental care. One of the most frequent injuries is a chipped or broken tooth. This is often caused by falls but can also be due to bike accidents or biting into hard objects. While minor chips may not cause immediate pain, more extensive fractures can expose nerves and lead to significant discomfort. Another serious dental injury is a knocked-out tooth, also known as an avulsed tooth. When a permanent tooth is completely dislodged from the mouth, immediate action is crucial to improve the chances of saving it. In contrast, if a baby tooth is knocked out prematurely, attempting to reinsert it can cause damage to the developing permanent tooth underneath. A loose or displaced tooth is another common issue that can occur due to blunt force trauma. While some cases resolve independently, others require professional dental evaluation to ensure the surrounding structures remain intact. If your child experiences a dental emergency, learning about common pediatric dental emergencies can help you take the proper steps. Tooth intrusion occurs when a tooth is pushed further into the gums due to an impact. This type of injury is more common in younger children whose jawbones are still developing. Tooth intrusion can lead to complications, such as damage to the underlying permanent teeth, making it essential to visit an emergency pediatric dentist in Friendswood for proper assessment. Lastly, injuries to the lips, tongue, or gums often accompany dental trauma. These soft tissue injuries can cause significant bleeding and pain, increasing the risk of infection if not properly treated. Immediate First Aid Steps for Dental Injuries Providing immediate comprehensive oral care for dental injuries can significantly improve the outcome. For a chipped or broken tooth, it is essential to rinse the child's mouth with warm water to remove debris. Applying a cold compress to the affected area can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. If possible, collect any broken fragments and bring them to a dentist. If a permanent tooth is knocked out, locate it and handle it only by the crown, avoiding contact with the root. If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently with water, but do not scrub or remove any attached tissue. If possible, reinsert the tooth into the socket and have the child bite on a clean cloth to hold it in place. If reinsertion is not feasible, store the tooth in milk or the child's saliva and seek emergency dental care immediately. For a step-by-step guide on managing a knocked-out tooth, check out this helpful resource on handling pediatric dental emergencies . Stabilizing a loose or displaced tooth by having the child bite down gently on a piece of gauze is essential. Avoid repositioning the tooth forcefully, as this could cause additional damage. A child-friendly dentist should assess the injury as soon as possible. Tooth intrusion should be treated with caution. Attempting to reposition the tooth at home is not recommended. Instead, apply a cold compress if the tooth is swelling and schedule an emergency dental visit. Seeking care from a pediatric emergency dentist in Friendswood can ensure the injury is managed appropriately. For soft tissue injuries, such as cuts to the lips, tongue, or gums, applying gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze can help control bleeding. A cold compress can reduce swelling, and rinsing with salt water may help prevent infection. When to Seek Professional Dental Care While minor dental injuries may not require immediate attention from a family dentistry practice, certain signs indicate the need for urgent dental care. Severe pain, swelling, excessive bleeding, or a knocked-out permanent tooth warrant an emergency visit to a dentist. Additionally, any signs of infection, such as: Pus Fever Red streaks near the injury site These should not be ignored. Understanding when to seek professional care can help prevent long-term complications. Parents can find more information on common pediatric dental emergencies . Prevention Tips to Reduce Dental Injuries While accidents are sometimes unavoidable, certain precautions can help minimize the risk of dental injuries in children. Wearing a properly fitted mouthguard during sports and recreational activities provides essential protection against impacts. Childproofing the home by securing furniture edges and installing safety gates can prevent falls that lead to dental trauma. Encouraging children to avoid chewing hard objects like ice, pens, or hard candy can also reduce the likelihood of chipped or broken teeth. Teaching good dental hygiene habits , including brushing and flossing regularly, strengthens teeth and enhances their resilience against injury. Additionally, parents should be prepared for unexpected dental emergencies while traveling. Knowing where to find emergency dental care can be invaluable in an unfamiliar location. If your child experiences a dental emergency away from home, reviewing these tips for handling dental emergencies while traveling can be beneficial. Need a Local Family Dentist? Contact Dentistry 4 Children Understanding first aid for dental injuries in children can make a significant difference in preserving their oral health. By acting quickly and getting affordable dental services, parents and caregivers can reduce pain, prevent complications, and increase the chances of saving an injured tooth. Here at Dentistry 4 Children, we know how scary these accidents can be for children. That is why we do everything possible to provide a safe and supportive local family dentist environment. So contact us today to get your child the help they need.