Expert Pulpotomy Services in Vancouver, WA: Preserve Your Child’s Smile

At Cascade Dental, we understand how crucial it is to maintain your child’s oral health. Our pediatric dental specialists in Vancouver, WA are skilled in performing pulpotomies—a vital treatment to preserve damaged or infected baby teeth. This procedure helps save a tooth compromised by infection, decay, or trauma, ensuring your child’s dental development remains on track.

What is a Pulp otomy? Why It’s Crucial for Your Child’s Oral Health

A pulpotomy is a dental procedure that removes infected or damaged pulp (the soft tissue inside a tooth) in a primary (baby) tooth. This procedure saves a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted due to deep decay or injury. By removing only the infected pulp, we leave the healthy pulp intact, allowing the tooth to continue functioning until it naturally falls out, making space for permanent teeth.

Why is a Pulpotomy Important?

Primary teeth are essential for chewing, speech development, and guiding permanent teeth into place. If a tooth is lost too early, it can cause alignment issues and affect the growth of permanent teeth. A pulpotomy preserves your child’s smile while protecting long-term oral health.

A pulpotomy is often the best choice when a tooth is severely decayed or damaged but can still be saved. Here’s why:

• Deep Cavities: A pulpotomy removes infection while preserving the tooth’s function.

• Trauma or Injury: If a tooth is knocked or injured, a pulpotomy helps save it.

• Pain and Swelling: Infected pulp causes discomfort, which a pulpotomy can relieve.

A pulpotomy avoids more invasive treatments like root canal therapy or extraction and ensures the proper development of permanent teeth.

The pulpotomy process is quick and minimally invasive, typically lasting 30-45 minutes. Here’s what will happen:

1. Initial Consultation & Anesthesia
   Your child’s dentist will assess the tooth and explain the procedure. Local anesthesia will be applied to numb the area and ensure comfort during treatment.

2. Removal of Infected Pulp
   The dentist removes the infected pulp tissue and thoroughly cleans the tooth to eliminate infection.

3. Sealing the Tooth
   After the pulp is removed, the tooth will be sealed with a medicated dressing to prevent further infection and promote healing.

4. Placement of a Crown
   In most cases, a stainless steel crown is placed over the tooth to protect it and restore its function.

5. Post-Procedure Care
   Mild discomfort may occur after the procedure, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Follow your dentist’s instructions to ensure proper healing.

Help your child feel at ease with these tips:

• Explain the Procedure: Use simple, child-friendly language to explain that the dentist is fixing their tooth and making it feel better.

• Reassure Your Child: Let them know the procedure is quick, and they’ll be numb or asleep during treatment.

• Bring Comfort Items: Bring a favorite toy or blanket to help your child feel secure.

• Follow Pre-Procedure Instructions: Ensure you follow any instructions, such as fasting before sedation.

We focus on making the experience as smooth and comfortable as possible for both you and your child.

We believe in transparent pricing. The cost of a pulpotomy generally ranges from $250 to $700, depending on the complexity of the procedure and materials used (such as stainless steel crowns). We also offer financing options to help make your child’s dental care more affordable. 

Explore Alternatives to Pulpotomy: Choosing the Best Treatment

If a pulpotomy isn’t the best option, other treatments may be considered, including:

• Stainless Steel Crowns: Often placed after a pulpotomy to protect the tooth from further damage.
• Tooth Extraction: In cases where the tooth is too damaged or the infection has spread.
• Root Canal Therapy: Rarely needed in children, but may be considered if the infection extends beyond the pulp.

Your dentist will guide you through all the treatment options to help you make the best decision for your child.