Pulpotomy at Brooks Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
Ensuring Healthy and Pain-Free Smiles
At Brooks Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we are committed to preserving your child’s dental health and ensuring a pain-free smile. One of the essential procedures we offer is pulpotomy, a treatment designed to save a severely decayed or infected primary tooth.What Is a Pulpotomy?
A pulpotomy, also known as a “baby root canal,” is a dental procedure used to treat tooth decay that has extended to the pulp (the inner part of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels). This treatment involves removing the infected part of the pulp to prevent the spread of infection and to save the tooth.Who Is the Ideal Candidate?
A pulpotomy is typically recommended for children who have:- Extensive tooth decay that has reached the pulp
- Tooth pain or sensitivity indicating pulp infection
- Swelling or abscess near the affected tooth
- A primary tooth that needs to be preserved until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt
How It Works
Initial Examination
The process begins with a thorough examination at Brooks Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics. Our dentists will assess the extent of the decay and determine if a pulpotomy is the appropriate treatment. We will also take X-rays to evaluate the condition of the tooth.Administration of Anesthesia
To ensure your child’s comfort during the procedure, a local anesthetic is administered to numb the affected tooth and surrounding area. For children with anxiety, laughing gas nitrous oxide or oral sedation services may also be used.Pulpotomy Procedure
The pulpotomy procedure involves several key steps:- Isolation of the Tooth:
- A dental dam is placed around the affected tooth to keep it dry and free from saliva. This isolation ensures a clean working environment and reduces the risk of infection.
- Removal of Decayed Tissue:
- The dentist uses a dental drill to remove the decayed portion of the tooth. This step exposes the pulp chamber, where the infected pulp is located.
- Accessing the Pulp Chamber:
- Once the decayed tissue is removed, the dentist accesses the pulp chamber. This is done carefully to avoid damaging the surrounding healthy tooth structure.
- Removal of Infected Pulp:
- The infected or inflamed pulp tissue from the crown portion of the tooth is removed using specialized dental instruments. The goal is to remove all affected tissue while preserving the healthy pulp in the root canals.
- Disinfection:
- The empty pulp chamber is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to eliminate any remaining bacteria and prevent further infection.
- Application of Medication:
- A medicated material, such as formocresol or mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), is applied to the remaining healthy pulp. This medication helps to calm the nerve tissue and promotes healing.
- Sealing the Tooth:
- After the medication is applied, the pulp chamber is sealed with a biocompatible material. This seal helps protect the tooth from future infection and supports the remaining tooth structure.
- Restoring the Tooth:
- To restore the tooth’s function and appearance, a dental crown is often placed over the treated tooth. The crown provides additional protection and ensures the tooth can withstand normal chewing forces.
Benefits of Pulpotomy
- Pain Relief: Eliminates pain caused by pulp infection and decay.
- Preservation of Primary Teeth: Maintains the integrity of primary teeth until they are naturally lost, ensuring proper alignment and spacing for permanent teeth.
- Prevents Spread of Infection: Stops the infection from spreading to other parts of the mouth or to the permanent teeth.
- Restores Function: Allows the child to chew and speak properly without discomfort.
Recovery and Care
Recovery from a pulpotomy is usually quick and straightforward. Your child may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity for a few days after the procedure. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene and follow the post-operative care instructions provided by our team:- Avoid sticky or hard foods that can damage the treated tooth.
- Maintain regular brushing and flossing to keep the mouth clean.
- Attend follow-up visits to monitor the health of the treated tooth.
Why Choose Brooks Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics?
- Expert Pediatric Care: Our board-certified pediatric dentists, Dr. Amelia Albright, DMD, and Dr. Joanna Ayala, DMD, have extensive experience in providing gentle and effective dental care for children. Learn more about our team of specialists.
- Comprehensive and Compassionate Treatment: From diagnosis to treatment, we offer comprehensive care and support throughout your child’s dental journey. Our friendly and welcoming environment ensures a positive experience for every visit. We also provide same day emergency appointments if urgent dental issues arise.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: We use the latest technology and techniques to ensure precise and effective treatments. Our modern facilities are designed to make children feel comfortable and safe. Discover how our modern technology enhances our dental services.
- Convenient Location and Flexible Hours: Located at 2302 SE Military Dr #101, San Antonio, TX 78223, we offer flexible office hours, including weekends, making it easy for you to access the care your child needs.