Hearing that your child needs pulp therapy can sound intimidating—especially if you’re worried about whether the procedure will be painful. Many parents delay or avoid treatment because of this fear, but modern pediatric dentistry has made pulp therapy more comfortable than ever.
Here’s the honest truth about what your child can expect during and after the procedure.
What Happens During Pulp Therapy?
Pulp therapy is a procedure that treats the inside of a tooth when the pulp—the tissue containing nerves and blood vessels—has been damaged or infected. In children, pulp therapy is often needed to save a baby tooth that has a deep cavity or injury.
During the procedure, your child’s pediatric dentist will carefully remove the infected tissue, clean the inside of the tooth, and place a medicated filling to protect it. In some cases, a stainless steel crown may be added to keep the tooth strong until it naturally falls out.
Is Pulp Therapy Painful?
Thanks to modern techniques and anesthesia, pulp therapy today is virtually painless. Most children report that the experience feels similar to getting a filling. Local anesthesia numbs the area completely, so your child won’t feel pain during the procedure itself.
Many parents are surprised to learn that pulp therapy is no more uncomfortable than other routine dental treatments. In fact, it often brings immediate relief because it addresses the source of your child’s tooth pain.
What to Expect After the Procedure
It’s normal for children to experience some mild soreness or sensitivity in the treated tooth after pulp therapy. This is usually temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter children’s pain relievers recommended by your dentist.
You may also notice that your child avoids chewing on the treated side of the mouth for a few days. This is completely normal and should improve as the tooth heals.
Tips for Keeping Your Child Comfortable
To make recovery easier, here are a few ways to help your child stay comfortable after pulp therapy:
- Offer soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, or mashed potatoes for the first day or two.
- Avoid sticky or crunchy snacks that could put pressure on the treated tooth.
- Give pain medication only as directed by your child’s dentist.
- Encourage gentle brushing around the treated tooth to keep the area clean.
Most kids bounce back quickly after pulp therapy and are able to resume normal activities within a day.
Why Treating the Tooth Matters
While the idea of pulp therapy can seem daunting, leaving an infected tooth untreated can cause more serious pain and lead to bigger dental problems. Treating the issue promptly not only saves the tooth but also protects your child’s overall oral health.
With today’s techniques, pulp therapy is a safe, effective, and surprisingly comfortable solution.
About the Practice
Kids receive totally tubular care st Surf’s Up Pediatric Dentistry! Dr. Cushing provides gentle, compassionate treatment including pulp therapy designed to preserve primary teeth and maintain healthy development. With a welcoming environment and a focus on prevention, Surf’s Up Pediatric Dentistry is here to support children and families through every stage of dental care.
Call us at (402) 773-7873 or request an appointment online.