What Is a Pulpotomy?
Posted by writeradmin
My son’s dentist said that he needs a pulpotomy, but then there was an urgent appointment and he needed to go before he could tell me much about it. I have the appointment scheduled for a week from now but would love to know what I’m getting into with this.
Sandy
Dear Sandy,
I can tell that you are a good mom and worried about your son. Even with a dental emergency, your son’s dental office should have had someone available that could answer your questions. I’m disappointed they left you on your own. This may be a one off, but if this type of behavior continues I would look for a different pediatric dentist.
To answer your question, though, a pulpotomy is simply a child’s version of a root canal treatment. If your son has an infected tooth, then this would be an appropriate treatment. It would really only be necessary on a back tooth. His other teeth can be removed without any additional problems. A back molar, however, needs to stay in place until your son is about twelve years old. Otherwise, the other teeth will shift or drift into the open space. When his adult teeth come in, you will be dealing with overcrowding and the need for braces.
If saving the tooth is not possible, for instance, if the pulpotomy were to fail, then it will be important than that space be preserved for his upcoming adult teeth. Make sure your dentist puts a space maintainer there to keep it open.
This blog is brought to you by Arnold, MD Dentist Dr. Meredith Esposito.