Pulpotomy is a dental procedure that is commonly performed on children when the dental pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth) in the crown of a primary (baby) tooth becomes infected or inflamed. Nowadays, with improved techniques and materials, the procedure is also performed in adults. It involves removing a portion of the damaged or inflamed pulp to relieve pain, prevent further infection, and save the tooth. Here’s a simplified explanation of pulpotomy for a common understanding:

If your child is experiencing tooth pain or has a cavity that has reached the dental pulp, you would take them to the dentist. The dentist will examine the tooth and determine if a pulpotomy is needed.

Before the procedure begins, the dentist at FS Dental clinic will ensure that your child's tooth and surrounding area are numb to prevent any discomfort during the treatment. The dentist may use a local anesthetic to achieve this, which involves a small injection near the affected tooth. Your child may feel a slight pinch or stinging sensation.

Once the tooth is numb, the dentist will place a small rubber sheet called a dental dam around the tooth. This helps to isolate the tooth, keeping it dry and free from saliva during the procedure. The
dentist will then create a small opening in the top part of the tooth to access the infected or inflamed dental pulp.

Using specialized dental instruments, the dentist will carefully remove the damaged or infected pulp tissue from the crown portion of the tooth. The remaining healthy pulp tissue is left intact in the
root canals of the tooth. The dentist may also use medicated materials to help disinfect and protect the remaining pulp.

After the pulp removal, the dentist will place a special medication or material over the remaining pulp to promote healing and prevent further infection. The tooth is then sealed with a dental filling
or a stainless-steel crown, depending on the extent of the tooth decay and structural damage.

After the pulpotomy, your child's tooth may be sensitive for a short period. The dentist will provide instructions for caring for the tooth, which may include avoiding hard or sticky foods and
maintaining good oral hygiene practices.

It’s important to note that pulpotomy is typically performed on primary (baby) teeth, as they eventually fall out naturally. The purpose of the pulpotomy is to preserve the primary tooth until it is ready to be replaced by a permanent tooth.

Note, this is a general overview, and the specific details of a pulpotomy procedure may vary based on your child’s individual situation.