If your child has a deep cavity, tooth infection, or dental injury, our doctors may recommend a type of treatment often called a baby root canal, or pulp therapy, or pulpotomy.
This page explains why pulp therapy is used in baby teeth, what MTA is, and how these treatments help children stay comfortable and healthy, using language designed for parents of young children.
What is pulp therapy (a “baby root canal”)?
Pulp therapy is a group of treatments used to remove infected or inflamed pulp tissue while keeping the tooth functional until it naturally falls out. Inside every tooth is the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When a cavity or injury reaches the pulp, it can cause:
- Tooth pain or sensitivity
- Swelling or infection (a baby tooth infection or abscess)
- Risk of infection spreading to surrounding bone or tissue
Common types of pulp therapy include:
Pulpotomy
- Used when infection or inflammation is limited to the top portion of the pulp
- The unhealthy pulp is removed, and a healing material is placed
- The tooth is then protected with a crown
Pulpectomy
- Used when infection involves all of the pulp tissue inside the tooth
- Infected tissue is removed from the entire root system
- The tooth is filled with a resorbable material and restored
Your pediatric dentist will recommend the option that best fits your child’s tooth and overall dental health.
Will my child feel pain during pulp therapy?
Pulp therapy is designed to relieve pain, not cause it.
- The procedure is performed with local anesthesia to fully numb the tooth
- Sedation options may be available for very young or anxious children
- Most children tolerate treatment well and return to normal activities the same day
Mild tenderness afterward is common and usually short-lived.
What is MTA (Mineral Trioxide Aggregate)?
Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) is an advanced dental material commonly used in pediatric pulp therapy, especially pulpotomies.
MTA is known for being:
- Biocompatible, meaning it is gentle on developing tissues
- Excellent at sealing out bacteria
- Supportive of natural healing inside the tooth
In simple terms, MTA acts as a protective barrier that helps the treated baby tooth stay healthy and symptom-free.
Why do pediatric dentists use MTA for pulpotomies?
According to pediatric dentistry guidelines and clinical research, MTA is widely used because it:
- Has a high success rate in baby teeth
- Reduces the risk of future infection
- Performs well even in young children
- Supports long-term retention of the tooth until natural exfoliation
Many pediatric dental offices now consider MTA a preferred material for pulpotomy procedures.
What happens after a baby root canal?
After pulp therapy:
- The treated tooth is typically restored with a stainless steel crown for strength and protection. In certain cases, High House Pediatric Dentistry may be able to offer white crowns (Bioflex Crowns) as an alternative to the stainless steel crown.
- Your child can eat and play normally once numbness wears off
- Routine dental visits allow the dentist to monitor healing
The baby tooth will still fall out naturally when the permanent tooth is ready to come in.
Is pulp therapy always necessary for baby tooth infections?
Not every cavity or tooth infection requires pulp therapy. Treatment depends on:
- The depth of decay
- Presence of pain, swelling, or infection
- Your child’s age and dental development
If a tooth cannot be safely saved, extraction may be recommended. Your pediatric dentist will explain all options and help you choose what’s best for your child.
Our approach to pediatric pulp therapy
Our goal is to provide evidence-based, child-centered dental care that prioritizes:
- Comfort and emotional safety
- Clear communication with parents
- Proven materials like MTA
- Long-term oral health and positive dental experiences
If you have questions about pulpotomy, pulpectomy, or baby tooth infections, we’re always happy to help.
📞 Questions about baby root canals or MTA?
Contact our office to schedule a consultation or speak with our pediatric dental team.