Root Canals for Kids (Pulpotomies) in Vineland, NJ
As your child grows, their jaw bones develop. It is crucial to keep every primary tooth that can be saved, as each tooth preserves enough space for the permanent teeth to grow later. If your child has a baby tooth with deep decay, Dr. Bristol-Mártir may perform a pulpotomy to preserve it.
Difference Between a Pulpotomy and Root Canal Therapy
When a root canal is done, the soft, live pulp is removed all the way down the canals of the tooth that lead to the root ends. With a pulpotomy, only the pulp in the crown of the tooth (the portion above the gumline) is removed.
When Do Children Need a Pulpotomy?
When a cavity breaks through the enamel of your child’s baby tooth and then through the dentin (the next layer) and reaches the pulp, that soft, live inner tissue will become inflamed. Your child may complain that their tooth hurts when hot, cold or sweet food or drink reaches that tooth. He or she may also have a toothache.
At this point, the inflamed pulp in the upper chamber of this tooth must be removed before the entire pulp becomes infected.
What Are the Steps of Your Child’s Pulpotomy ?
- The tooth and the surrounding area are numbed.
- The decayed area is drilled out.
- The tooth is opened up down to the pulp by drilling.
- The pulp in the upper part of the tooth is cleaned out.
- The remaining pulp that reaches down the canals to the roots is disinfected.
- The pulp chamber is sealed.
- The drilled area is restored with a filling.
- A crown is placed over the tooth to keep it strong.
What to Expect After a Pulpotomy
Dr. Bristol-Mártir will give you instructions on how to care for your child’s tooth following a pulpotomy. As a first step, have your child eat only soft foods or liquids until the anesthetics wear off. This helps prevent them from accidentally biting their lip or the inside of their cheek while numb.
Rest assured, it’s normal for your child to feel some discomfort or tenderness in the pulpotomy area for a few days. You may consider managing this discomfort with children's strength, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. A warm saltwater rinse may also alleviate soreness. Put one-half teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water and have your child gently swish it around his or her mouth a few times. This can be done up to three to four times a day.
If your child has persistent or worsening post-pulpotomy symptoms, call our office right away.
Questions?
Please call our office so we can answer your questions about pulpotomies or to schedule an appointment for your child.
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