In the event that your child’s teeth are infected, our skilled pediatric dentists may suggest a pulpotomy as a solution to restore their oral health. Commonly referred to as a baby tooth root canal, this procedure aims to eliminate the infected tooth tissue, allowing your child to regain a healthy smile and continue their normal growth and development. To arrange a consultation with Dr. Matt Swan and obtain further information about pulpotomy in Lehi, Utah, please contact Mountainland Pediatric Dental & Orthodontics at (801) 766-2111 today.
Pulpotomy is an endodontic procedure commonly utilized for primary (baby) teeth. When decay or injury reaches the innermost layer of the tooth called the dental pulp, patients often experience tooth pain and sensitivity. If left untreated, the tooth may develop an abscess and ultimately require extraction. To prevent this outcome, our pediatric dentists may recommend a pulpotomy.
During a pulpotomy, we eliminate the decay within the pulp chamber. The area is sterilized, but unlike a conventional root canal treatment, the tooth nerves are not extracted or treated. In certain cases, a portion of the healthy pulp may be retained to maintain its vitality. To achieve this, we often utilize a therapeutic dressing. Following the removal of the decayed pulp and thorough cleaning of the tooth, a dental crown is typically necessary. We commonly recommend stainless steel crowns for children.
While pulpotomy is not frequently performed on permanent (adult) teeth, it may be considered if the decay has reached the pulp but a significant portion of the pulp remains healthy. If the tooth roots have not fully formed, a partial pulpotomy can enable the tooth to complete its development.
For further details about therapeutic pulpotomy and the exceptional range of services we offer, please don’t hesitate to contact our office today.