What is Pulpotomy? Steps, Materials, Cost, and More

Various dental health procedures are designed to preserve teeth and relieve discomfort. One common dental procedure you might not be familiar with is pulpotomy.

Whether you’re a concerned parent seeking information about your child’s dental care or an adult curious about this dental treatment, this comprehensive guide is for you.

We will explore the procedure, its indications, materials, cost, and the differences between pulpotomy and pulpectomy.

By the end of this article, you’ll understand what a pulpotomy entails and when it might be the right choice for you or your loved ones.

What Is Pulpotomy?

A pulpotomy is a dental procedure used to treat a tooth when the inner part becomes infected or inflamed due to infection or swelling.

This inflammation or infection can result from deep cavities or traumatic injuries.

The primary objective of a pulpotomy is to preserve the vitality of the tooth, especially when dealing with primary (baby) teeth.

Pulpotomy Materials

The materials can vary based on the type of tooth under treatment.

Dentists typically use a unique filling material with medication for baby teeth, which are primary teeth.

One material that dentists often use is called zinc oxide eugenol, and it’s known for its ability to fight bacteria and provide comfort.

It helps reduce swelling and forms a protective shield to prevent more infections.

Dentists may opt for biocompatible materials like mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) or calcium hydroxide for permanent teeth, especially when the root is still healthy and viable.

These materials are recognized for their incredible ability to seal and work well with the body’s tissues.

MTA, in particular, is highly regarded for its ability to create a tight seal, ensuring that bacteria cannot re-enter the treated tooth.

Step-by-Step Procedure of Pulpotomy

Here are the critical steps that the pulpotomy procedure entails:

• Local Anesthesia: The dentist administers local anesthesia to induce numbness in the tooth and surrounding area.
• Isolation: The dentist places a rubber dam around the tooth to maintain a dry environment and shield it from saliva.
• Removal of Pulp Tissue: The dentist removes the decayed or infected pulp tissue from the crown portion of the tooth.
• Disinfection: The dentist removes the inner contents of the tooth to eliminate any microbes or bacteria.
• Medication: Dentists place a unique filling material with medication in the pulp chamber of baby teeth to promote healing. For permanent teeth, they may use biocompatible material instead.
• Sealing: The dentist covers the tooth with something that can either stay there for a while or stay there forever to keep it safe from getting more hurt.
• Follow-Up: Patients are generally recommended to schedule a follow-up appointment to verify that the tooth is healing properly.

Read: Crown Vs Root Canal: Understand The Difference!

Pulpotomy in Permanent Teeth

While pulpotomy is more commonly associated with primary teeth, It is sometimes carried out on permanent teeth in particular situations.

A pulpotomy might be suggested if a young permanent tooth gets hurt or infected.

The aim is to keep the tooth working properly and prevent the need for a full root canal procedure.

Who Should Go for Pulpotomy? 

Determining when a pulpotomy is necessary is essential for patients and dental professionals. Here are common indications for a pulpotomy:

• Deep Cavities: A cavity extending deep into the pulp chamber can lead to pulpitis (pulp inflammation). Dentists recommend pulpotomy to remove the affected pulp tissue.
• Tooth Trauma: Dental injuries, such as fractures or dislodgement, can expose or damage the pulp tissue. In such cases, a pulpotomy can fix the damaged pulp and rescue the tooth.
• Pulp Exposure During Dental Procedures: Occasionally, the pulp may become exposed during other dental procedures, such as tooth preparations for crowns. Dentists perform the pulpotomy to address the exposed pulp tissue.
• Severe Toothache: Severe tooth pain can indicate pulpitis or pulp infection. If problems with the pulp are causing pain, a pulpotomy could be a good choice for treatment.

Cost

Cost is a significant consideration for many patients regarding dental procedures. Fortunately, a pulpotomy is usually cheaper than a full root canal treatment.

The cost can differ for different reasons, like which tooth it is, where you live, and which dentist you visit.

Sometimes, if you have dental insurance, they help pay for part of it, which makes it easier to afford.

Nevertheless, it’s crucial not to delay necessary dental care due to financial concerns.

Left untreated, dental issues can deteriorate over time, resulting in more extensive and expensive treatments later.

Consulting with a dentist and discussing payment options or dental financing plans can make necessary dental care manageable.

Pulpotomy in Children

Pulpotomy is common in children, particularly on primary (baby) teeth.

Keeping baby teeth healthy is essential because they help you eat, talk, and make room for your grown-up teeth to come in.

If your child experiences dental pain or has a damaged primary tooth, consult a dentist to determine if a pulpotomy is appropriate.

Pulpotomy Aftercare Tips for Speedy Recovery of Your Child

To ensure the effective recovery of your child after pulpotomy, you should keep the following guidelines in mind.

• If the child is experiencing some pain, sensitivity, or discomfort after the procedure, follow your dentist’s prescription. Your dentist will recommend painkillers such as acetaminophen and eating soft food instead of a regular diet.
• Guide the child to avoid eating or drinking on the side of the mouth where the procedure has been done. Wait until the area heals properly. For proper healing, visit your doctor after a few weeks.
• Make sure the child practices good oral hygiene. Ensure your child brushes twice daily, flosses, and avoids unhealthy foods like candies.

Pulpotomy vs. Pulpectomy

Differentiating between pulpotomy and pulpectomy, as these terms are sometimes used interchangeably. However, they refer to different procedures with distinct purposes.

Pulpotomy: This process includes removing the pulp from the top part of the tooth but keeping it in the roots. Usually, dentists perform it on baby teeth to preserve their function until they naturally exfoliate.

Pulpectomy: In contrast, this involves completely removing pulp tissue from the tooth’s crown and root portions. Typically, dentists perform this procedure on permanent teeth.

If you need more clarification about which procedure you or your child may need, it’s crucial to consult with a dentist who can assess the specific situation and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Conclusion

A pulpotomy is a dental procedure that can save teeth from further damage and relieve pain.

Whether performed on primary (baby) or permanent teeth, understanding the materials used, indications for the procedure, and associated costs can help patients make informed decisions about their dental health.

If you have concerns about your dental health or your child’s oral well-being, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified dentist for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment recommendations.

Make an Appointment

If you suspect that you or your child may require a pulpotomy, it’s essential not to delay seeking professional dental care.

A pulpotomy is a useful treatment that can rescue a tooth from more harm and make the pain go away.

To schedule an appointment with our experienced dental team, visit PVPD.com. If you’re dealing with a toothache, don’t wait.

Start your journey toward a healthier, pain-free smile today.