Nerve Treatment for Kids: Understanding Pulpectomy, Pulpotomy, and Other Dental Terms

When parents hear the term “root canal,” they often think of an adult procedure for severely decayed teeth. But children sometimes need a similar type of care for their baby teeth. In pediatric dentistry, this is called nerve treatment, which may involve a pulpotomy or pulpectomy. While the terms may sound technical and a little intimidating, these treatments are important for saving baby teeth until they are ready to fall out naturally.

Why Baby Teeth Sometimes Need Nerve Treatment

Baby teeth may not last forever, but they are essential for your child’s growth and development. They help with chewing, clear speech, and guiding permanent teeth into proper position. If a baby tooth is lost too early due to decay, it can cause problems such as crowding, shifting teeth, and misalignment. That’s why preserving them until their natural time to shed is so important.

When decay reaches the pulp—the soft inner layer of the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels—it causes pain, sensitivity, or even infection. In these cases, a simple filling is no longer enough, and nerve treatment may be recommended.

What Is a Pulpotomy?

A pulpotomy is often called a “nerve treatment for baby teeth.” In this procedure, only the infected portion of the pulp inside the crown of the tooth (the visible part above the gums) is removed. The healthy root portion is left in place. Afterward, the dentist places a medicated material to protect the nerve and seals the tooth with a crown.

This treatment is generally recommended when the infection is limited and the roots are still healthy. A pulpotomy allows the tooth to remain strong and functional until it naturally falls out.

What Is a Pulpectomy?

If the infection has spread deeper into the roots of the tooth, a pulpectomy may be needed. This procedure removes all of the pulp tissue from both the crown and the roots. The canals are carefully cleaned, disinfected, and filled with a safe, resorbable material that naturally dissolves when the baby tooth falls out. Finally, the tooth is restored with a crown to maintain strength and chewing ability.

A pulpectomy is usually recommended when the pulp is more severely infected or damaged beyond repair.

The Importance of Saving Baby Teeth

Even though baby teeth eventually fall out, they play a crucial role in your child’s health and development. Early tooth loss can lead to difficulties with chewing, speaking, and spacing for permanent teeth. Nerve treatments like pulpotomies and pulpectomies help protect your child’s smile and reduce the risk of orthodontic complications later in life.

Healthy Smiles Start with the Right Care

Nerve treatment may sound intimidating, but pulpotomies and pulpectomies are safe, effective ways to relieve pain, treat infection, and preserve baby teeth until they’re ready to come out naturally.

About the Practice

At Stroud Pediatric Dentistry, patients of all ages receive gentle, specialized care. We’re proud to serve our Willow Park families, making dental care less stressful, one smile at a time. Dr. Stroud and Dr. Ball are highly experienced in nerve treatments such as pulpotomies and pulpectomies. We’re here to help young patients stay comfortable while maintaining healthy, happy smiles.

Call us at (817) 441-2425 to learn more.