### What is a Pulpotomy? A pulpotomy is a dental procedure used to save a tooth that has severe decay or infection. This procedure is often recommended when a cavity is so deep that it reaches the pulp, the innermost part of the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. During a pulpotomy, the dentist removes the infected pulp from the crown of the tooth, which is the visible part above the gum line. This helps to stop the infection and save the tooth from being extracted. ### Who Needs a Pulpotomy? Pulpotomies are most commonly performed on children with baby teeth, but they can also be done on adults and older children with permanent teeth. The main goal is to keep the tooth alive and healthy, especially in children, as baby teeth help maintain the spacing for permanent teeth. ### The Procedure Before the procedure, the dentist will take an X-ray to determine the extent of the infection. If a pulpotomy is needed, the dentist will numb the area around the tooth to ensure you feel no pain during the procedure. For small children, general anesthesia or light sedation may be used. ### Aftercare After the procedure, it's normal to experience some discomfort once the anesthesia wears off. Over-the-counter pain medication like acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help alleviate this. Avoid eating or drinking on the side of the mouth where the procedure took place until complete healing has occurred. Stick to soft foods like soup or scrambled eggs and avoid anything crunchy. ### Costs The cost of a pulpotomy can vary. Without dental insurance, the procedure alone can cost between $80 and $300. If a crown is needed, the total cost can rise to $750 to $1,000 or more. Costs may be higher if general anesthesia is required. ### When to Call the Dentist If you experience severe pain, new swelling, redness, or persistent pain after the procedure, contact your dentist. These symptoms may indicate that additional treatment is needed. ### Conclusion A pulpotomy is a less invasive procedure than a root canal and is primarily used to save a severely decayed tooth. While it is most commonly performed on children, it can also be effective for adults. The procedure helps to remove infected pulp, stop the infection, and save the tooth.