• 3590 N Zaragoza Rd., Ste. B105-106, El Paso, Texas 79938
Oral health care starts early

A pulpotomy is a common dental procedure used in pediatric dentistry to treat decay or trauma affecting the soft inner tissue (pulp) of a child’s tooth, typically a baby molar. When the top portion of the pulp becomes inflamed or infected but the root remains healthy, a pulpotomy can preserve the tooth and prevent the need for extraction. During the procedure, the dentist removes the damaged part of the pulp from the crown of the tooth while leaving the root portion untouched. The area is then cleaned, treated with a medicated dressing to prevent infection, and sealed often with a stainless-steel crown for durability. Our kids dentist in El Paso, Texas, offers pulpotomies as a safe, effective way to relieve pain and preserve your child’s primary teeth until they naturally fall out.

When Should Your Child Get a Pulpotomy?

When your child has a decaying tooth, a pulpotomy is your best course of action. Pulpotomies are commonly used to treat infected primary teeth in children. However, they can also be performed on permanent teeth. During this procedure, only the pulp in the crown is removed while the pulp in the roots remains intact. Pulpotomies are relatively safe and painless.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a pulpotomy and a root canal?
A pulpotomy is a simpler procedure usually done on baby teeth or immature permanent teeth when only the upper portion of the tooth pulp is affected. In contrast, a root canal involves removing all of the pulp tissue from the tooth. A pulpotomy is often used to preserve a child’s primary tooth until it falls out naturally, preventing complications with chewing and alignment.
Is a pulpotomy painful for kids?
The procedure is generally not painful. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, and children usually tolerate it well. After the treatment, there might be some minor discomfort, but it’s usually manageable with children’s pain relief medication if needed. Most kids return to normal activities the same day.
How long does a pulpotomy take?
A pulpotomy is relatively quick, often completed in a single visit, and takes about 30–45 minutes. The dentist removes the infected pulp tissue, disinfects the area, and places a protective filling or stainless steel crown over the tooth to restore its function and prevent further decay.
Is it necessary to treat baby teeth with a pulpotomy if they will fall out anyway?
Yes, treating decayed baby teeth is important even though they eventually fall out. Untreated infections can cause pain, affect eating and speaking, and even damage developing adult teeth beneath the gums.
Can adult teeth get a pulpotomy?
While rare, a pulpotomy may be done on immature permanent teeth in older children or teens to preserve vitality and allow the root to finish developing. In adults, a full root canal is more common when pulp therapy is needed. The decision depends on the extent of the damage and the stage of tooth development.

Your Healthiest Smile Starts Here

We’re here to support your oral health every step of the way. Whether you are exploring treatment options or are due for a check-up, our team is ready to help you make informed decisions. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or ask questions about your care.