The pulp of a tooth is the inner, central core of the tooth. The pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, connective tissue and reparative cells. The purpose of pulp therapy in Kids Dentistry is to maintain the vitality of the affected tooth (so the tooth is not lost).
Dental caries (cavities) and traumatic injury are the main reasons for a tooth to require pulp therapy. Pulp therapy is often referred to as a "nerve treatment", "children's root canal", "pulpectomy" or "pulpotomy". The two common forms of pulp therapy in children's teeth are the pulpotomy and pulpectomy.
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A pulpotomy removes the diseased pulp tissue within the crown portion of the tooth. Next, an agent is placed to prevent bacterial growth and to calm the remaining nerve tissue. This is followed by a final restoration (usually a stainless steel crown).
A pulpectomy is required when the entire pulp is involved (into the root canal(s) of the tooth). During this treatment, the diseased pulp tissue is completely removed from both the crown and root. The canals are cleansed, disinfected and, in the case of primary teeth, filled with a resorbable material. Then, a final restoration is placed. A permanent tooth would be filled with a non-resorbing material.
We may recommend Pulp Therapy, a gentle and conservative treatment designed specifically for children. Unlike traditional root canals, pulp therapy removes only the infected portion of the tooth’s pulp, preserving as much of the healthy structure as possible. This minimally invasive procedure relieves discomfort, supports natural tooth development, and helps maintain proper spacing for permanent teeth. We ensure this treatment is delivered with your child’s comfort in mind, using advanced tools and a compassionate approach for a calm, stress-free experience.
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A pulpotomy removes only the diseased pulp from the crown of the tooth while leaving the root pulp intact. It's used when the infection is limited to the upper portion. A pulpectomy removes all the pulp — both from the crown and root canals — and is used when infection has spread into the roots. Both procedures are followed by a crown placement to protect the treated tooth.
No. The area is fully numbed with local anesthesia before the procedure begins, so your child should not feel any pain. We also offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to keep anxious children relaxed and comfortable. Most children handle the procedure very well with minimal discomfort afterward.
A pulpotomy typically takes 30–45 minutes, while a pulpectomy may take longer depending on the complexity. In most cases, the crown placement can be done at the same appointment, completing the restoration in a single visit when possible.
Yes. After pulpal therapy, a dental crown is placed over the treated tooth to restore its strength, protect it from future decay, and ensure proper function. A stainless steel crown is the most common choice for baby molars due to its durability. For front teeth, a tooth-colored option may be used.
