Pulpotomy for Children in Naples
A pulpotomy is a gentle, effective treatment that saves a baby tooth when decay reaches the nerve. At Morning Star Children's Dentistry in Naples, FL , Dr. Rose Gedeon uses this procedure to relieve pain, stop infection, and keep your child’s tooth healthy until it is ready to fall out naturally.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is a Pulpotomy?
Inside every tooth is the pulp, a soft tissue containing nerves and blood vessels. A pulpotomy removes the damaged or infected portion of pulp from the crown of the tooth, the part above the gumline, while leaving the healthy pulp in the roots intact. It is sometimes called a “baby root canal,” but it is less extensive than a traditional root canal or a pulpectomy.
When Is a Pulpotomy Recommended?
A pulpotomy is often recommended when:
- A cavity is deep enough to reach the pulp but has not affected the roots
- Your child has sensitivity or pain from a decayed tooth
- A tooth has been injured and the pulp is exposed
- Saving the baby tooth is important for spacing and development
Dr. Rose Gedeon uses digital X-rays and a thorough exam to confirm that the root pulp is healthy and a pulpotomy is the right choice.
What to Expect During the Procedure
- The tooth and surrounding area are numbed for comfort
- Decay and infected pulp tissue are removed from the crown of the tooth
- The area is cleaned and disinfected
- A biocompatible medicated material is placed to protect the remaining healthy pulp
- A pediatric dental crown is placed to restore strength and function
Most pulpotomies are completed in a single visit. Nitrous oxide is available to help nervous children feel relaxed.
Benefits of a Pulpotomy
A pulpotomy can save a tooth that might otherwise need an extraction. It relieves pain, stops the spread of infection, and preserves the space needed for permanent teeth to erupt properly. Keeping the baby tooth also supports normal chewing, clear speech, and healthy alignment of adult teeth.
Aftercare Tips
Your child may feel mild tenderness for a day or two. Offer soft foods and avoid chewing until the numbness wears off. Continue gentle brushing and flossing, and contact us if swelling, fever, or persistent pain develops. Regular checkups allow us to monitor the treated tooth.
If your child is experiencing tooth pain or you suspect decay, call Morning Star Children's Dentistry at (239) 920-7827 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Rose Gedeon.
Pulpotomy FAQs
Is a pulpotomy the same as a root canal?
Not exactly. A pulpotomy removes pulp only from the crown of the tooth, while a root canal or pulpectomy removes pulp from the roots as well.
Does a pulpotomy hurt?
The tooth is numbed before treatment, so your child should feel comfortable. Mild soreness afterward is common and short-lived.
How long does a pulpotomy take?
A pulpotomy with crown placement is usually completed in one visit lasting 45 minutes to an hour.
Why save a baby tooth with a pulpotomy?
Saving the tooth relieves pain, maintains space for the permanent tooth, and supports healthy chewing, speech, and alignment.
Will my child need a crown after a pulpotomy?
Yes. A crown is typically placed to protect the treated tooth and prevent it from breaking.
Is a pulpotomy done on permanent teeth?
Pulpotomies are most common on baby teeth but may be used on young permanent teeth in certain situations to support continued root development.
What should my child eat after a pulpotomy?
Offer soft foods once the numbness wears off, and avoid very hard or sticky foods for the rest of the day.