Pulpotomy Keysborough — Gentle Nerve Treatment for Children’s Teeth
At Dental at Keys, we understand that dental visits can be daunting for children. Our caring team provides gentle and effective treatments to keep your child’s smile healthy and pain-free. One common procedure we perform to save a baby tooth from infection is called a pulpotomy.
How Do I Know If My Child’s Tooth Needs a Pulpotomy?
Your child’s dentist at Dental at Keys will perform a thorough dental examination, which includes:
- A full oral check-up
- X-rays to assess the depth of decay
- Additional testing if required
Signs a Pulpotomy May Be Needed
A pulpotomy is suitable when:
- The cavity has just reached or is about to reach the pulp (the “heart” of the tooth where the nerve lives)
- The tooth causes pain when chewing, but the pain stops once chewing ends
- The nerve is still healthy and not infected
When a Pulpotomy Is Not Suitable
A pulpotomy may not be the right option if:
- Your child experiences severe or lingering pain, especially spontaneous pain at night
- There is visible infection, swelling, or abscess
- X-rays show infection or bone changes near the roots
If infection is present, a pulpectomy (baby root canal) or tooth removal may be needed instead.
How Is a Pulpotomy Done?
At Dental at Keys, our dentists take every measure to ensure your child’s comfort and safety during treatment.
Step 1: Numbing and Isolation
- The tooth is numbed with local anaesthetic, so your child won’t feel any pain.
- We then place a rubber dam around the tooth to keep the area clean, dry, and sterile.
Step 2: Cleaning and Access
- All tooth decay is carefully removed, and the pulp chamber is gently opened to access the affected nerve tissue.
- There will be some bleeding, which helps us assess the health of the pulp.
Step 3: Assessing the Pulp
A small cotton pellet is placed over the pulp for a few minutes:
- If the bleeding stops, it means the pulp is healthy enough for a pulpotomy.
- If bleeding continues, it suggests the pulp is irreversibly inflamed, and the tooth may require an alternative treatment.
Step 4: Medication and Crown Placement
Once suitable, a restorative medication such as Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) is placed to protect the remaining healthy pulp.
The tooth is then sealed tightly and finished with a stainless steel crown (SSC) to restore function and prevent future damage.
This crown acts as a strong protective cover, allowing the baby tooth to stay in place until it’s naturally ready to fall out.
How to Prevent the Need for a Pulpotomy
The best way to avoid needing a pulpotomy is to catch cavities early and maintain excellent oral hygiene.
Here’s how you can help your child prevent decay:
- Regular dental check-ups (every 6 months) to detect issues early
- Brushing twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing nightly to clean between teeth
- Limiting sugary foods and drinks
Addressing any dental pain promptly — early treatment helps prevent more invasive procedures
If you’re interested in a Pulpotomy in Keysborough, we invite you to visit Dental at Keys for a personalised consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Do a Pulpotomy on a Permanent Tooth?
In some cases, yes. For example, if a permanent tooth is injured or has a small pulp exposure, a partial pulpotomy may be done using MTA. However, if the tooth’s roots are fully developed, a root canal treatment is usually the preferred option.
How Long Does a Pulpotomy Take?
A pulpotomy generally takes 30–40 minutes, depending on the tooth’s condition and your child’s cooperation.
What Is a Cvek Pulpotomy?
A Cvek pulpotomy (or partial pulpotomy) involves removing only a few millimetres of exposed nerve tissue, typically after trauma to a permanent tooth. The area is then treated and sealed similarly to a pulpotomy.
Thanks to modern bio-compatible materials, even more conservative options may now be available in some cases.
What Is the Difference Between a Pulpotomy and a Pulpectomy?
A pulpotomy removes only the top part of the nerve inside the tooth’s crown.
A pulpectomy (baby root canal) removes all the nerve tissue, cleans the canals, and fills them with a special root filling material called Gutta Percha.
What If a Pulpotomy Isn’t Possible?
If a pulpotomy isn’t suitable — for example, if the tooth is already infected — the alternative may be tooth removal.
Leaving an infected tooth untreated can cause:
- Pain and swelling
- Damage to the developing adult tooth underneath
- Serious infections, including facial swelling or septicaemia
