What is a pulpotomy?

A pulpotomy is a dental procedure that involves the partial removal of the pulp from a tooth, usually performed on baby (primary) teeth. It is typically done when the pulp inside the tooth is infected or damaged due to decay or trauma.

During a pulpotomy, the dentist will remove the top portion of the pulp (the nerve and blood vessels) from the tooth, while leaving the healthy portion intact. This helps to relieve pain and prevent further infection, while still allowing the tooth to maintain its structure and function.

After the pulp is removed, the dentist will clean and disinfect the tooth before filling it with a special material to seal it off from further damage. In some cases, a stainless steel crown may be placed over the tooth to protect it and restore its strength.

Overall, a pulpotomy is a common and successful treatment for saving baby teeth and preventing the need for extraction. It is important to follow up with regular dental care and maintain good oral hygiene to ensure the long-term health of the tooth.