When decay reaches the nerve of a baby tooth, parents usually expect one of two words: extraction or agony. Happily there is a third: pulpotomy, the baby-tooth version of a root canal, and it is quicker and gentler than its adult cousin.
A baby molar's job is to chew for years and to hold a parking spot for the adult tooth beneath. Remove it early and neighbouring teeth drift into the space, crowding out the adult successor, a problem that costs far more to orthodontically undo than the pulpotomy that would have prevented it. When the tooth can be saved, saving it is almost always the better economics and the better medicine.
Under complete local anesthesia, the infected portion of the nerve in the crown of the tooth is removed, the healthy root nerve is preserved and medicated, and the tooth is sealed, usually under a protective crown that carries it comfortably to its natural exit date. The visit is typically shorter than parents expect, and children handle it remarkably well, especially with laughing gas on board. Sedation Dentistry
Some teeth are too far gone, and honesty beats heroics. In those cases we remove the tooth gently and, where needed, place a small space maintainer so the adult tooth still arrives on target. Children’s Extractions
Toothache in a small person? Call us today: (250) 372-2326.
Questions, or ready to book? Call (250) 372-2326 or request an appointment online.