Are you in Slidell, LA, and searching for top-tier Pulpotomies services tailored specifically for your child's needs? Look no further than Live Oak Pediatric Dentistry! Contact us today!
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What Is a Pulpotomy?
A pulpotomy is a dental procedure that removes the infected tissue of the dental pulp. We usually recommend pulpotomies for children with severe dental decay extending beyond the enamel and dentin and into the pulp in the tooth’s core. A pulpotomy removes the infected pulp (connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerve fibers) from decayed teeth. Dr. Mesa then uses a medicated filling called MTA, (the best available biocompatible material), to restore your little one's oral health and alleviate the pain and discomfort caused by dental decay.
Did you know…
good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing, can help reduce the risk of needing a pulpotomy in the first place?
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Before & After
A smile is worth 1,000 words.
See real patient success stories.
What Are the Benefits of Getting Your Child a Pulpotomy?
Instant Pain Relief
The most notable benefit of a pulpotomy is that it offers immediate and permanent pain relief from toothaches associated with dental decay, especially when painkillers are ineffective. Pulpotomies remove the infected and inflamed pulp, doing away with the source of the pain permanently.
Preservation of the Tooth
Pulpotomies involve removing the infected pulp but leaving the rest of the tooth intact. This makes it a better alternative to more invasive treatments for dental decay, like tooth extractions that involve pulling out the entire tooth. Preserving the tooth ensures proper speech and permanent teeth development in children.
Contains the Infection
Pulpotomies prevent the cavity-causing bacteria from spreading from one tooth to the next. Untreated dental decay can easily spread to the neighboring teeth. Pulpotomies do away with the infected pulp, completely eliminating bacteria from the teeth and preventing further infection.
Hospital Sedation
Hospital sedation provides a safe, anxiety-free option for pediatric dental care. Administered by an anesthesiologist, sedatives allow kids to fully relax through procedures. Vital signs are monitored ensuring optimal levels are maintained. With fewer traumatic memories, hospital sedation can build a lifetime of positive dental experiences for children.
The Pulpotomy Treatment Process
Diagnosis and Anesthesia
First, the dentist will examine the teeth for an accurate diagnosis of whether a pulpotomy is necessary. This usually involves a physical examination of the teeth and x-rays to determine the severity of the dental decay. Next, the dentist will isolate the tooth and inject lidocaine into your child's gums to numb the tooth and surrounding areas.
Access and Pulp Tissue Removal
Next, the Slidell pediatric dentist will remove the pulp from the pulp cavity, carefully removing only the top portion while leaving the rest intact. They’ll finish up by irrigating and disinfecting the canal.
Medication and Restoration
Once the infected pulp has been removed and the tissue has been disinfected, Dr. Mesa only uses a medicated filling called MTA, the best available biocompatible material, to restore your little one's oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Pulpotomy Procedure Hurt?
No, pulpotomy procedures are far from painful because dentists use a combination of sedation techniques to ensure a smooth and painless procedure. Local anesthetic is also used to numb the tooth and surrounding soft tissue, eliminating pain completely.
Is a Pulpotomy Covered by Dental Insurance?
Yes, most dental insurance providers offer pulpotomy coverage for children and adults. That's because dentists deem pulpotomies medically necessary to address dental decay. Moreover, pulpotomies are a relatively inexpensive dental procedure, which most insurance companies will have no problem paying for. However, it’s important to check with your insurance provider to be completely certain.