A deep cavity in your toddler’s baby tooth may lead to a discussion about pulpotomy. Understanding the term can help you discuss the treatment plan.
🦷 What is a pulpotomy?
The dentist removes pulp tissue from the tooth’s crown while keeping living pulp in the roots. A treatment material covers the remaining pulp, and a filling or crown seals the tooth.
🔎 When might it be considered?
The AAPD’s 2024 guideline addresses baby teeth with deep decay and pulp that is healthy or has inflammation that can heal. Assessment includes symptoms, an examination and X-rays.
These recommendations do not apply to baby teeth with dead pulp or inflammation that cannot heal. Those need a different treatment assessment.
💡 Questions for your toddler’s dentist
- Diagnosis: What does the examination show about the pulp?
- Alternatives: Could indirect pulp treatment be appropriate?
- Materials: AAPD favors calcium silicate cement for pulpotomy in eligible teeth. Which material is planned?
☎️ Discuss your child’s care
Contact Little Kids Dentistry or explore more Toddlers articles.
📚 AAPD source
Based on Use of Vital Pulp Therapies in Primary Teeth 2024. Educational information, not an individual treatment plan or AAPD endorsement.