Pulpotomy Specialist
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Kids Dental Center
Pediatric Dentist located in Greenbelt, MD
A pulpotomy is the only way to relieve pain and save your child’s tooth when a cavity or trauma affects the soft, nerve-containing pulp. When Bosede Adeniji, DDS, at Kids Dental Center performs a pulpotomy, the procedure is always pain-free, and she works closely with you and your child to relieve their anxiety and create a positive experience. When your child suffers from tooth pain, relief is available. Call the office in Greenbelt, Maryland, or book an appointment online.
Pulpotomy Q & A
What is a pulpotomy?
A pulpotomy is a procedure to remove damaged pulp in the tooth’s crown while leaving the healthy pulp in the root. By comparison, a full root canal, or pulpectomy, removes all the pulp.
The pulp, which includes nerves and blood vessels, resides in a narrow canal that runs through each tooth, beginning in the roots and traveling up into the center of the tooth. When pulp in the top of the tooth is inflamed, a pulpotomy treats the problem while preserving the tooth.
How does a pulpotomy save my child’s tooth?
Inflammation in the pulp develops when your child has a deep cavity or a damaged tooth that allows bacteria to get inside the tooth.
If it’s not treated quickly, this inflammation can progressively worsen into an infection that affects all the pulp and causes an abscess that erodes the bone.
A pulpotomy saves the tooth two ways. First, it prevents infection and inflammation from destroying all the pulp and causing an abscess; and second, it leaves enough vital pulp inside the tooth to keep it alive and healthy.
What are the symptoms of a pulp infection?
Inflamed or infected pulp causes pain in the affected area. Your child may also experience one or more of the following symptoms:
- Severe pain when chewing
- Pain when touching the tooth
- Swollen and tender gums
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
Will my child receive sedation before their pulpotomy?
Dr. Adeniji’s top priority is ensuring all your child’s dental work, including a pulpotomy, is gentle and painless. Some children may only need a local anesthetic to keep their pulpotomy pain free.
Children with heightened anxiety about dental care or sensitivity to touch and pain may benefit from a safe sedative to help them relax before receiving a local anesthetic.
Parents can count on Dr. Adeniji to explain all the pain-relief options and help them choose the degree of anesthesia or sedation best for their child.
How is a pulpotomy performed?
Dr. Adeniji uses a specialized drill to clean out the cavity and top part of the pulp. Next, She sterilizes and medicates the area. To finish the procedure, she places the crown over the tooth to restore its full strength.
At the first sign of a toothache, call Kids Dental Center or book an appointment online.
