Pulpotomy, also called a pulp treatment, is an endodontic treatment that is most often used on primary (baby) teeth. When decay or injury reaches the dental pulp, which is the innermost layer of the tooth, patients often experience tooth pain and sensitivity. If not treated, the tooth will likely abscess and eventually require extraction. In order to prevent this, our dentist in Beaufort, SC may recommend pulpotomy.
During pulpotomy, we remove the decay and the pulp chamber. The area is sterilized, but unlike a regular root canal treatment, the tooth nerves are not removed or treated. In some cases, not all of the dental pulp is removed, thus maintaining the vitality of the remaining healthy pulp. For these situations, we often use a therapeutic dressing to maintain the healthy pulp. After the decayed pulp is removed and the tooth is cleaned, a dental crown is often required. We most often recommend stainless steel crowns for children.
While pulpotomy is rarely recommended for permanent (adult) teeth, this treatment may be suggested if decay has reached the pulp but much of the pulp is still healthy. If the roots of the tooth have not finished forming, a partial pulpotomy can give the tooth a chance to finish forming.
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When a tooth is too decayed to be repaired by fillings and crowns, Drs. Covington or DuRant may suggest a pulpotomy. This is Lowcountry Family Dentistry’s treatment option for root canals for children’s baby teeth. Though less invasive than a traditional root canal, we understand that many parents have concerns about this kind of invasive procedure. Consult our Lady’s Island dental office by calling 843-986-0177.