What is pulp treatment for baby teeth?
Pulp treatment, sometimes called a baby root canal or pulpotomy, removes infected tissue from inside a baby tooth so it can stay healthy until it falls out naturally. This saves the tooth, stops the pain, and keeps space for the adult tooth that's growing underneath.
When your child might need it
- A deep cavity that has reached the nerve
- Spontaneous toothache or night-time pain
- Swelling or a small bump on the gum
- A cracked baby tooth exposing the pulp
How it works
- The tooth and gum are fully numbed with kid-friendly anesthetic
- A protective sheet keeps the area clean and the rest of the mouth dry
- The infected pulp is gently removed and the chamber is disinfected
- A soothing medicated paste is placed, followed by a strong filling or crown
Benefits
- Saves the tooth instead of extracting it
- Eliminates pain and swelling quickly
- Preserves space for the permanent tooth
- Helps your child chew, speak, and smile normally
What to expect
The procedure usually takes 45-60 minutes, all in a single visit. Your child can watch a screen on the ceiling while we work, and our pediatric team narrates each step in playful language so nothing feels surprising.
Recovery & aftercare
Mild tenderness for a day or two is normal and easily managed with children's ibuprofen if needed. Stick to soft foods for the first 24 hours and avoid chewing directly on the treated tooth until the final crown is placed.
A note for parents
Kids pick up on parental worry, so try to use calm, matter-of-fact language about the visit. Bringing a favorite stuffed animal or blanket can give your child a comforting anchor in the chair.