What is Pulp Therapy?

Pediatric pulp therapy, also known as root canal, pulpotomy, pulpectomy, or nerve treatment, aims to treat, restore, and save the affected tooth. Pediatric dentists perform these procedures on both primary (baby) and permanent teeth. Primary teeth are important for speech, chewing, and guiding the alignment and spacing of permanent teeth.

Signs of Pulp Injury and Infection

• Constant unexplained pain
• Pain at night
• Sensitivity to warm or cool foods
• Swelling or redness around the affected tooth
• Unexpected looseness or mobility of the affected tooth

When Is Pulp Therapy Needed?

The pediatric dentist evaluates the child’s age, tooth position, and overall health to decide whether to extract the tooth or save it with pulp therapy. Premature tooth loss can lead to:

• Shortened arch length
• Insufficient space for permanent teeth
• Protruding or misaligned opposing teeth
• Painfully impacted premolars
• Shifting of remaining teeth to fill gaps
• Abnormal tongue posture

How Pulp Therapy Is Performed

The pediatric dentist will examine the tooth and X-rays to determine the extent of pulp damage. Common procedures include:

Pulpotomy

If the root pulp remains healthy, only the affected pulp at the tip is removed. The space is filled with a biocompatible material that prevents infection and soothes the remaining pulp. A crown is often placed to strengthen the tooth and reduce fracture risk. Pulpotomy can be performed on baby teeth, growing permanent teeth, or as the first step in a full root canal.

Pulpectomy

For severe decay or trauma affecting the entire pulp and root canals, the pulp is removed, the canals are cleaned, and the space is packed with biocompatible material. Reabsorbable material is used for primary teeth, and non-reabsorbable material for permanent teeth. A crown is then placed to restore structural support and aesthetics.

If you have questions or concerns about pediatric pulp therapy, please contact your pediatric dentist.