Pulpotomy is a common endodontic treatment that is primarily used to save primary (baby) teeth and occasionally young permanent teeth. If a tooth experiences deep decay or trauma, the infection can spread to the dental pulp, the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. When this occurs, your child may experience symptoms like pain, swelling or sensitivity. If left untreated, the infection can worsen, leading to abscesses and early tooth loss. To preserve the tooth and maintain oral health, our dentist may recommend pulpotomy in Dearborn, Michigan.
How Pulpotomy Works
The goal of pulpotomy is to remove the infected or inflamed tissue within the pulp chamber while preserving the healthy tissue below. First, the affected area is numbed for your comfort. Then, Dr. Haytham Fares carefully removes the damaged pulp from the crown portion of the tooth. After the infected tissue is eliminated, the chamber is sterilized to prevent further infection. Unlike a full root canal treatment, pulpotomy does not involve removing the pulp within the roots. Instead, it focuses only on the upper portion of the pulp, allowing the tooth to maintain some of its vitality.
Following the procedure, a special medicated dressing is placed over the healthy pulp to promote healing and prevent bacteria from entering. The tooth is then restored, often with a dental crown. Stainless steel crowns are often recommended for primary teeth because they are strong and durable. For adult teeth or permanent teeth in young patients, a tooth-colored crown may be used to maintain a natural appearance.
When Pulpotomy Is Recommended
Pulpotomy is most commonly performed on primary teeth to avoid the need for early extraction, which could lead to issues with speech development, chewing and proper alignment of incoming permanent teeth. In rare cases, pulpotomy may also be appropriate for young permanent teeth, especially if the roots have not fully developed. In these situations, preserving the remaining healthy pulp gives the tooth the best chance to complete root formation.
Our dentist may recommend pulpotomy if the decay or trauma is limited to the upper part of the pulp and there is no evidence of infection spreading into the roots or surrounding bone. In more severe cases, a full root canal or tooth extraction may be necessary.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If your child is experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, early intervention is important. Our skilled dentist will carefully assess their needs and recommend the best treatment option to protect your oral health. To learn more about pulpotomy in Dearborn, Michigan, or to schedule a consultation, please contact our office at 313-561-7070. We look forward to helping you maintain a healthy, confident smile.