Pulpotomy ("Baby Root Canal")
Saving Smiles with Gentle, Child-Friendly Treatment
At Eastside Children’s Dentistry, we offer pulpotomy treatment in Chagrin Falls, OH, to help preserve baby teeth that have been affected by deep decay or infection. Also known as a “baby root canal,” a pulpotomy is a common and effective procedure that removes infected pulp tissue from inside a tooth—helping relieve pain, protect the tooth, and support healthy development.
Led by Dr. Sandyha Menon, our pediatric dental team uses a gentle, comforting approach to make the process easy for young patients and their families.
We’re pleased to provide pulpotomy treatment to children in Chagrin Falls, Ohio. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Menon, please call (440-708-1331).
Why Choose a Pulpotomy?
When tooth decay reaches the inner layer (the pulp), it can cause discomfort and infection. A pulpotomy allows us to save the tooth by removing only the damaged portion of the pulp—while keeping the rest of the tooth structure intact.
Benefits of a pulpotomy include:
- Preserves the baby tooth until it naturally falls out
- Stops the spread of infection
- Prevents premature tooth loss
- Supports normal chewing, speech, and jaw development
- Avoids the need for tooth extraction or more invasive treatment
This procedure is typically followed by the placement of a stainless steel crown to protect the tooth and restore full function.
What a Pulpotomy Helps Treat
Pulpotomies are often recommended for baby teeth that show signs of:
- Large cavities that reach the pulp
- Persistent tooth pain or sensitivity
- Swelling or redness around a tooth
- Deep decay detected on X-rays
- Reversible pulp inflammation (not a full infection of the roots)
Our team will evaluate the tooth and determine whether a pulpotomy is the best solution for saving it.
What to Expect During a Pulpotomy
A pulpotomy is a routine procedure in pediatric dentistry and can typically be completed in one visit. Here’s what the process looks like:
Initial Evaluation
We’ll start by examining the tooth, taking X-rays, and confirming whether the pulp has been affected.
Numbing and Comfort
The area around the tooth will be numbed so your child stays comfortable throughout the procedure.
Removal of Infected Pulp
The decayed part of the tooth and the affected pulp tissue in the crown of the tooth are gently removed, while the healthy pulp in the root is left intact.
Medication and Protection
We apply a medicated dressing to calm and protect the remaining pulp, then seal the tooth and place a stainless steel crown for long-term strength.
Aftercare for a Tooth with a Pulpotomy
Recovery from a pulpotomy is typically smooth. Mild soreness may occur for a day or two, but most children return to normal eating and activities quickly. To keep the restored tooth healthy:
- Follow brushing and flossing routines daily
- Avoid very sticky or hard foods that could damage the crown
- Visit the dentist every 6 months for checkups and X-rays
We’ll continue to monitor the tooth until it naturally falls out and is replaced by a permanent tooth.
Why It’s Important to Save Baby Teeth
Even though baby teeth eventually fall out, they serve an important role in guiding the growth of your child’s permanent smile. By saving a baby tooth with a pulpotomy, we can:
- Prevent shifting of surrounding teeth
- Preserve space for the adult tooth
- Support clear speech and normal chewing
- Minimize the risk of future orthodontic complications
Restoring and protecting baby teeth today leads to healthier smiles tomorrow.
Is a Pulpotomy Right for Your Child?
If your child has been complaining of tooth pain or has a cavity that looks deep, a pulpotomy may be the best way to relieve discomfort and save the tooth.
During your visit, Dr. Menon will perform a full evaluation and discuss the most effective treatment options based on your child’s unique needs.
FAQs About Pulpotomys
Q: Is a pulpotomy painful for children?
The procedure itself is not painful as local anesthesia is used to numb the area completely. Your child may experience mild discomfort for a day or two afterward, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Q: How long does a pulpotomy take?
A pulpotomy typically takes 30-45 minutes to complete. The tooth is usually restored with a stainless steel crown during the same appointment to protect it from further damage.
Q: What happens after a pulpotomy?
After the procedure, your child should avoid hard or sticky foods for 24 hours and maintain good oral hygiene. The treated tooth should function normally and remain in place until it’s time for the permanent tooth to erupt.
Q: Are there alternatives to pulpotomy?
The main alternatives are tooth extraction or, in some cases, a full pulpectomy (complete removal of all pulp tissue). However, preserving the natural tooth with a pulpotomy is usually the preferred option when possible to maintain proper spacing for permanent teeth.
Comfort-Focused Care That Puts Your Child First
At [full_name], we’re here to make dental treatment easy, effective, and stress-free. A pulpotomy is a safe and gentle way to treat deep decay in baby teeth—and our team is here to guide your family every step of the way.
Call us today to schedule your child’s visit at our [primary_city] office. We’re here to keep little smiles healthy and happy! Please call (440-708-1331) today and let’s book your child’s appointment!