Key takeaways
- A pulpectomy treats infection inside a baby tooth.
- Saving baby teeth protects space for adult teeth.
- It's done gently, with numbing gel and sedation if needed.
- A kids' crown usually protects the tooth afterwards.
Why baby teeth matter
Baby teeth hold space for adult teeth, help children chew and speak, and keep the jaw developing properly. Losing one too early can cause crowding later.
When a pulpectomy is needed
- Deep decay that has reached the nerve.
- Toothache, especially at night.
- Swelling or a pimple on the gum.
- An injured tooth that has become infected.
What happens
- Numbing gel, then gentle local anaesthesia.
- The infected pulp is removed and the canals cleaned.
- Canals are filled with a material that dissolves naturally as the adult tooth comes in.
- A crown protects the tooth.
Keeping your child comfortable
We use tell-show-do, short visits and laughing gas for anxious children, in our colourful Bubbles Dental rooms.
Frequently asked questions
Does a pulpectomy hurt?
It's done under numbing, so children usually feel only pressure.
Why not just remove the tooth?
Extraction may cause crowding later. Saving the tooth is usually better if possible.
This article is for general information and doesn't replace a dental examination. Prices mentioned are starting prices at the time of writing.