A pulpotomy, often referred to as a "baby root canal," is a specialized dental procedure in pediatric dentistry designed to preserve a child’s natural tooth when the innermost layer, the dental pulp, is damaged. The dental pulp, containing nerves and blood vessels, is essential for a tooth's health but becomes vulnerable to infection due to deep cavities, injuries, or exposure during dental procedures. Symptoms such as pain, sensitivity, swelling, or redness often indicate pulp damage. If left untreated, these conditions can escalate into abscesses, bone loss, or even tooth loss. Unlike an adult root canal that removes all pulp tissue, a pulpotomy focuses on saving the healthy portion within the tooth’s crown while removing the infected pulp.
During the procedure, the dentist carefully cleans and disinfects the pulp chamber before sealing it with biocompatible materials like mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) or calcium hydroxide. To reinforce and protect the tooth, a dental crown—made of stainless steel or tooth-colored materials—is placed, restoring both its functionality and appearance. This effective treatment relieves pain, preserves the natural tooth, prevents infections, and supports the proper alignment and development of surrounding teeth. With a high success rate and numerous benefits, pulpotomies provide children with a strong foundation for lifelong oral health and a confident, healthy smile.
