When Kids Need a Pulpotomy or Pulpectomy
TLDR / Key Takeaway
If your child has a deep cavity or tooth pain, a pulpotomy or pulpectomy may be needed to save the tooth. These gentle, kid-friendly procedures treat infection inside the tooth while avoiding extraction. At Kids Dental Pals & Orthodontics in Simi Valley, we specialize in making these treatments as stress-free as possible.
What Is a Pulpotomy?
A pulpotomy is sometimes called a “baby root canal.” It’s a procedure used to remove the infected or inflamed part of the pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth) while leaving the healthy root structure intact. It’s commonly done on baby teeth with deep cavities.
The goal of a pulpotomy is to:
- Relieve pain and infection
- Preserve the natural tooth
- Maintain space for the permanent tooth to erupt properly
Pulpotomies are quick, effective, and done with care to make sure your child stays comfortable throughout.
What’s the Difference Between a Pulpotomy and Pulpectomy?
While both procedures treat the inside of the tooth, the main difference is how much of the pulp is removed:
- Pulpotomy: Removes the upper portion of the pulp, keeping the root pulp intact
- Pulpectomy: Removes all of the pulp, including in the roots, when the infection is more extensive
Pulpectomies are often recommended when a tooth is severely infected but still salvageable. Both procedures help avoid unnecessary extractions and protect your child’s oral development.
Signs Your Child Might Need One
It’s not always easy for kids to express tooth pain, but there are signs that might indicate the need for pulp therapy:
- Persistent toothache or sensitivity
- Swelling or redness around a tooth
- A visible hole or deep cavity
- A darkened or discolored tooth
- Pain when chewing
If any of these symptoms show up, schedule a dental exam right away. The earlier the problem is treated, the better the outcome.
What to Expect During the Procedure
At Kids Dental Pals, we walk both kids and parents through the process in a clear, supportive way. Here’s a basic overview of what happens:
- We numb the area to keep your child comfortable
- The decayed part of the tooth and affected pulp is gently removed
- The space is cleaned and treated with a safe medication
- The tooth is sealed and usually restored with a crown (often a white zirconia crown)
We use techniques that minimize discomfort and help children feel relaxed every step of the way.
Why These Treatments Matter
Saving a baby tooth might seem unnecessary since it will fall out eventually—but these teeth are important for:
- Guiding permanent teeth into position
- Supporting healthy speech development
- Maintaining proper chewing function
Without treatment, infected teeth can affect your child’s overall health and lead to more serious complications.
Trust Kids Dental Pals for Gentle Pulp Therapy
Our Simi Valley pediatric dental team has experience performing pulpotomies and pulpectomies with the utmost care. We:
- Use child-friendly explanations to reduce anxiety
- Tailor treatment plans to your child’s specific needs
- Focus on comfort, compassion, and long-term oral health
You can trust us to treat your child like one of our own and help them smile with confidence again.
Ask Us About Pulpotomy and Pulpectomy For Kids
If your child is dealing with tooth pain or has been told they need pulp therapy, don’t wait.
Book an appointment at Kids Dental Pals & Orthodontics in Simi Valley to get started with care you can count on.
