Tooth decay is an issue many children face, since they love sugary foods and can forget to brush their teeth. If a cavity is left untreated, it can eat through the tooth and reach its pulp, which contains nerves, soft tissue, and blood vessels. To prevent further infection, a pediatric dentist will often suggest pulp therapy. To help you prepare for your child’s upcoming treatment, here’s more information about pulp therapy and what it does.

What Is Pulp Therapy?

If a cavity sinks through the tooth because it was left untreated, bacteria can enter the pulp chamber inside it. This causes inflammation, pain, and swelling, and can lead to infection. Rather than extracting the infected tooth, a pediatric dentist can perform pulp therapy to salvage it. This is used for both baby and adult teeth, since infections need to be addressed promptly to avoid health risks.

What Are Its Types?

There are two types of pulp therapy.

A pulpotomy can be performed if the infection has only spread to the tip of the pulp. A dentist will clean the affected part then use a filling to eliminate the gap and shield the inside of the tooth from bacteria. Often, they’ll place a crown atop the filling to make it more durable.

A pulpectomy is used in cases of extreme decay. The pulp must be entirely removed and the root chambers cleaned to prevent infection. The pediatric dentist will then fill each hole and attach a crown to further protect the teeth.

How Can I Avoid It?

Healthy dental care habits and a balanced diet low in sugar and rich in calcium are the best ways to avoid cavities and pulp infection. Ensure your child brushes and flosses twice a day and visits their pediatric dentist at least twice a year for deep dental cleanings to remove built-up plaque. 

For help caring for your child’s teeth, visit Pediatric Dentistry of Onalaska. Serving La Crosse County, WI, and the surrounding areas since 2002, Dr. Timothy Flood brings over 25 years of pediatric dentistry experience and focuses on personalized care to achieve the best results. Whether your little one needs routine dental cleanings or pulp therapy, he can keep their teeth healthy and strong. Find updates on Facebook, learn more about the practice online, or call (608) 781-9114 to schedule an exam.