Pediatric Pulpotomiesin Los Feliz, Los Angeles
When tooth decay extends deep into a child’s tooth, it can affect the inner pulp, where nerves and blood vessels are located. In these cases, pediatric pulpotomies may be the best solution to relieve discomfort, preserve the tooth, and prevent further infection. At Griffith Pediatric Dentistry in Los Feliz, Dr. Stephanie Cruz and Dr. Grant Gleason provide gentle, expert pulpotomies tailored specifically for children.
As board-certified pediatric dentists, they focus on preserving natural baby teeth until they're ready to fall out naturally, supporting proper chewing, speech, and dental development throughout childhood. In their anxiety-aware, kid-centric environment, this procedure is not only effective but also surprisingly stress-free for little ones.
Why Should I Get a Pediatric Pulpotomy?
When cavities or trauma reach the soft center of a baby tooth, pain and infection can follow. Pediatric pulpotomies are a vital step to save the tooth, stop the pain, and avoid more invasive procedures later (like extractions or space maintainers). At Griffith Pediatric Dentistry in Los Feliz, our friendly and experienced team creates a soothing, kid-friendly atmosphere complete with ceiling TVs, iPads, and the magic of Disney+, so your child feels safe and calm during the entire visit. Dr. Cruz and Dr. Gleason take the time to understand each child’s needs, including those with special sensory or behavioral considerations, ensuring that even more complex procedures like pulpotomies are handled with compassion and care.
The Benefits Of Pediatric Pulpotomies
Stops Pain and Infection Quickly
Pediatric pulpotomies remove the inflamed pulp that causes toothaches, allowing children to eat, speak, and rest comfortably again. Relief is typically immediate after treatment.
Preserves the Baby Tooth
Rather than removing the tooth entirely, a pulpotomy keeps it in place until it’s time to naturally fall out, supporting proper jaw growth and speech development.
A Healthier Long-Term Solution
By preventing the spread of infection and reducing the need for future dental work, pulpotomies support your child’s lifelong oral health while minimizing anxiety and disruption.
Our Difference
The Pediatric Pulpotomy Treatment Process
Gentle Examination and Diagnosis
Dr. Cruz or Dr. Gleason will begin by carefully examining your child’s tooth and taking low-radiation digital X-rays to determine the extent of decay. This step is done with plenty of reassurance, and maybe a little Disney+ magic, to help your child feel safe and relaxed.
Numbing and Pulp Removal
After applying a gentle numbing gel and local anesthesia, the dentist will remove the infected part of the pulp from the crown of the tooth (while leaving the root intact). This is a quick process, typically taking only a few minutes, and is often easier on kids than parents expect.
Sealing and Restoring the Tooth
Once the infected tissue is removed, the space is disinfected and sealed with a therapeutic material to prevent bacteria from returning. A protective pediatric crown is then placed to restore the tooth’s full function, so your child can chew comfortably and smile with confidence.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Check out these frequently asked questions, or call us to speak with our team.
