Medically Reviewed by Esteem Dental And Orthodontic Team on October 6, 2026
A cavity that reaches deep into a baby tooth can cause real pain for a child, and parents often worry about what treatment will involve. The good news is that a pulpotomy is a routine, well-established procedure designed to relieve discomfort and save the tooth so it can do its job until it naturally falls out.
At Esteem Dental, we perform pulpotomies regularly for children throughout the Orlando area, and we know how to make the experience calm and manageable for both kids and parents. Our team focuses on gentle communication and a comfortable environment so your child feels supported from the moment they sit in the chair.
What Is a Pulpotomy?
A pulpotomy removes the infected or inflamed pulp tissue from the crown portion of a tooth while leaving the healthy pulp in the root intact. This differs from a root canal, which removes pulp tissue from the entire tooth, including the roots. Pulpotomies are most often performed on primary (baby) teeth because those teeth have a job to do, holding space for permanent teeth and supporting proper chewing and speech, even though they will eventually fall out on their own.
Cavities that go untreated can progress until bacteria reach the inner pulp, causing swelling, sensitivity, or a toothache that will not go away. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, pulp therapy helps maintain the integrity of the primary dentition and supports normal function until the tooth is naturally lost. Catching the problem early with a pulpotomy can often mean the difference between saving a tooth and losing it before it is ready to come out.
Signs Your Child Might Need One
Parents are not expected to diagnose dental problems, but a few signs can point toward the need for a pulpotomy. A tooth that aches without an obvious cause, sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers, or visible swelling near the gum line are all worth mentioning at your child’s next visit.
Sometimes a cavity has already progressed significantly by the time discomfort shows up, which is one reason routine dental exams and cleanings matter so much for growing kids.
What Happens During the Procedure
Understanding the steps ahead of time can ease a lot of anxiety for both children and parents. Most pulpotomies follow a similar pattern, and each step is designed with a child’s comfort in mind:
- Numbing: We apply a local anesthetic so your child does not feel pain during the procedure.
- Removing decay: We clear away the decayed portion of the tooth to access the pulp chamber.
- Treating the pulp: The infected pulp tissue in the crown is removed, and a medicated dressing is placed to calm the remaining healthy tissue in the roots.
- Restoring the tooth: A stainless steel crown or similar restoration is placed over the tooth to protect it and restore its function.
Most children tolerate this procedure well, and many describe it as feeling similar to getting a filling. Afterward, your child may have mild numbness for a few hours, but should return to normal eating and activities the same day.
Recovery and Aftercare
Once the anesthesia wears off, most children feel back to themselves quickly. We recommend soft foods for the first day and a gentle reminder to avoid biting the numb area of the cheek or lip until sensation fully returns. Regular brushing and flossing can resume as normal, and any mild soreness typically fades within a day or two.
Why Choose Esteem Dental for Your Child’s Care
Families across Lake Nona, Winter Garden, and the greater Orlando area trust us for pediatric dentistry that puts children at ease. We take time to explain each step in a way kids can understand, and we welcome questions from parents at every visit. Our team also offers sedation dentistry for children who need extra support to feel comfortable during treatment.
We accept most major insurance plans and offer flexible financing so cost does not stand between your child and the care they need. If your child is showing signs of tooth pain or you would like to schedule a checkup, contact our office today to get them the comfortable, compassionate dental care they deserve.
Dr. Jordan Jones, DDS
Dr. Jordan Jones leads the experienced team at Esteem Dental, providing comprehensive family dental care to the Winter Garden and Lake Nona communities. With a focus on general dentistry, pediatric care, and orthodontics, Dr. Jones combines advanced techniques with a compassionate approach to ensure every patient receives personalized, quality treatment in a comfortable environment.
✓ Medically Reviewed
