Pulpotomy

Pulpotomies: The Superhero Move for Baby Teeth

Your child’s baby teeth act like placeholders for adult teeth. When one gets infected, pulling it too early can cause long-term issues. That’s where a pulpotomy steps in like a superhero.

Here’s why our pediatric dentist may recommend this procedure:

• The child experiences lingering pain in a baby tooth
• A large cavity reaches the nerve
• Trauma or injury causes nerve exposure
• Swelling or redness appears around the tooth
• X-rays show infection in the crown but not the root
  
  

We preserve the tooth and guide natural growth by removing the infected pulp in the crown and leaving the healthy root intact. The doctor finishes the treatment with a crown that protects the tooth until it falls out naturally.

What Happens During a Pulpotomy in St. Peters

Kids often imagine dental treatments as scary or confusing. That’s why our team takes time to explain the process in a fun and friendly way. Dr. Hastings walks your child through every step so nothing feels surprising or overwhelming.

Here’s what we do when your child needs a pulpotomy:

1. We numb the tooth using a local anesthetic. We make sure your child stays comfortable.
   
   
2. The dentist removes the infected pulp from the tooth’s crown with gentle tools.
   
   
3. We clean and disinfect the space to remove bacteria and reduce the risk of further infection.
   
   
4. The doctor places a medicated dressing over the remaining healthy pulp.
   
   
5. We place a dental crown over the tooth to protect it and restore full function.
   
   

The entire process usually takes less than an hour. Most kids return to their regular activities later that day.

Signs Your Child May Need a Pulpotomy

Sometimes kids have trouble explaining their symptoms. As a parent, you know when something’s off. When you bring your child to Gateway Little Smiles, the dentist performs a full exam and takes X-rays to determine if a pulpotomy offers the best solution. If your child shows any of these signs, schedule a visit with us soon:

• Pain when chewing or eating
• Swelling in the gums near a tooth
• Sensitivity to hot or cold foods
• A tooth that looks gray or dark
• Unexplained fussiness or trouble sleeping
  
  

Trust the Experts in Tiny Smiles

Pediatric dentistry requires more than skill—it requires patience, empathy, and an eye for detail. Dr. Hastings specifically treats children and teens. Our office and amazing staff in St. Peters feel more like a clubhouse than a clinic, and our team builds real relationships with families. We listen, laugh, and celebrate healthy smiles with you. 

We also specialize in treating children with special needs, creating customized care plans that ensure every child feels safe, supported, and understood. Our dentists make dental care fun and stress-free from first visits to restorative care. If your child needs a pulpotomy in St. Peters, we deliver high-quality results in a kid-friendly setting.

Let Us Take Care of Your Kids and Relieve Pain With a Pulpotomy

Don’t wait until your child’s tooth pain gets worse. Call Gateway Little Smiles in St. Peters, Missouri, to make an appointment today. Dr. Hastings makes every visit easy and comforting. 

We offer flexible financing to help your family access expert pediatric care without stress. Let us protect your child’s smile with a gentle pulpotomy in St. Peters.