As a parent, taking care of a child with a painful toothache or dental sensitivity can be worrisome, especially if you aren’t completely sure what’s causing your little one pain. Fortunately, your pediatric dentist can help determine what type of treatment can ease their discomfort and restore their dental health. In some cases, that could be with a pulpotomy, which is a treatment that’s similar to a root canal, but designed for baby teeth. Read on to learn more about it and how to tell if it’s the treatment your child may require.
What is a Pulpotomy?
A pulpotomy is a dental procedure that involves the treatment, filling, and restoration of an infected primary (baby) tooth. The first step is all about making your child feel comfortable, so the pediatric dentist will numb the area around that tooth that’s being operated on. If this is your child’s first dental treatment and they’re fearful, sedation can also be administered.
The pediatric dentist will then access the tooth and remove any decay, as well as the infected pulp, which is a collection of soft tissue and nerves. This is the main difference between a root canal and pulpotomy, is that only a small portion of the pulp is removed in a pulpotomy, while the entire pulp is removed during a root canal treatment. The remaining pulp will then be treated with a special medication and the tooth will be resealed and topped with a dental crown.
What are Some Signs Your Child Needs a Pulpotomy?
There are a few different symptoms that can signify the need for a pulpotomy in Newton:
- Severe decay that has been left untreated
- A painful and persistent toothache
- Persistent dental sensitivity
- Swelling or redness around the affected tooth
- The tooth appears darker than surrounding teeth
If you spot any of these, it’s a good idea to bring your child in for an emergency dental exam with their pediatric dentist.
What is It Like Healing from a Pulpotomy?
As a parent, one of your top concerns will likely be about your child’s health and how they’ll be feeling. In the several days or week after their pulpotomy in Newton, they’ll likely experience some swelling and discomfort. Typically, over-the-counter children’s pain medication is recommended or prescribed to help them heal and feel better. If you notice that their pain isn’t subsiding or that it’s becoming worse, don’t hesitate to contact their pediatric dentist.
Although it can be difficult seeing your child in discomfort over a dental problem, know that it won’t last long! Thanks to treatments like pulpotomies, your child’s pediatric dentist can erase their pain without having to extract one of their teeth.
About the Author
Dr. Ana Dokova Brys is the pediatric dentist at Waban Dental Group. She brings years of experience and extensive knowledge and training in the treatment, management, and diagnosis of dental health problems that impact kids. In addition to being board-certified, Dr. Brys is also a proud affiliate of the Franciscan Children’s Hospital. To schedule an emergency examination for your child, visit Waban Dental Group’s website or call 617-527-6061.
