At Happy Pediatric Dentistry, our mission is to protect your child’s smile and preserve their natural teeth whenever possible. When a primary (baby) or permanent tooth becomes damaged or infected due to decay or trauma, we may recommend pulp therapy—commonly known as a pulpotomy or pulpectomy. These procedures are vital in saving the tooth and supporting healthy oral development.

Our trusted San Antonio pediatric dentist understands that early treatment is key to preventing more serious dental issues. Baby teeth play a critical role in helping children chew, speak clearly, and maintain space for the proper eruption of permanent teeth. That’s why we take every step to restore and protect your child’s oral health in a gentle, compassionate environment.

What Is Pulp Therapy?

Pulp therapy involves treating the soft tissue inside a tooth, known as the pulp. This tissue contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue that help the tooth grow and remain healthy. If this area becomes inflamed or infected, it can cause pain and affect your child’s overall dental development.

Depending on the extent of the infection or injury, our San Antonio pediatric dentist may recommend one of the following treatments:

• Pulpotomy: When the infection is limited to the crown of the tooth and hasn’t spread to the roots, we perform a pulpotomy. The diseased pulp in the top portion of the tooth is removed, and the remaining healthy pulp in the root canals is treated with a therapeutic antibacterial agent. This allows the tooth to remain functional and pain-free.

• Pulpectomy: If the infection has extended into the root canals, a pulpectomy is required. In this procedure, we remove the entire pulp from both the crown and roots of the tooth. The root canals are carefully cleaned, disinfected, and filled with a resorbable material suited for baby teeth.

Protecting the Tooth with a Crown

After pulp therapy, we typically place a crown over the treated tooth to restore strength and function. Depending on the tooth’s location and your preferences, we offer stainless steel crowns or tooth-colored options for a more natural appearance.

When your child is in need of gentle, effective care, trust the experienced team at Happy Pediatric Dentistry. Our dedicated San Antonio pediatric dentist is here to ensure your child receives high-quality treatment that keeps their smile healthy, bright, and pain-free. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment!