Pediatric Endodontics
Pediatric endodontics treats the pulp of children's teeth — both primary (baby) and immature permanent teeth. The procedures are pulp-preserving wherever possible: pulpotomy (partial pulp removal) for early-stage cases, pulpectomy (full pulp removal in baby teeth), and vital pulp therapy for permanent teeth still developing. The approach is calmer, gentler, and explicitly child-friendly.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Hope Feldman · Diplomate, American Board of Endodontics
Last reviewed May 5, 2026 · NPI 1275089088
When you need pediatric
These are the most common reasons pediatric is recommended. If you recognize any of these signs, call the office. We hold time daily for urgent endodontic care.
- A baby tooth with deep decay reaching the pulp
- A permanent tooth in a child or teen with deep decay or trauma
- A swollen face, gum bump, or persistent toothache in a child
- Trauma to a front tooth with possible pulp involvement
- A tooth your pediatric dentist has referred for specialty endodontic care
How pediatric works at Hope Endodontics
- 1
Welcome and assessment
A short, friendly visit before treatment to meet the child and explain things age-appropriately.
- 2
CBCT or digital X-ray
Low-radiation imaging confirms the diagnosis.
- 3
Comfort options
Nitrous oxide, oral sedation, or behavioral guidance — whatever is right for the child.
- 4
Pulp therapy
Pulpotomy, pulpectomy, or vital pulp therapy depending on age and tooth maturity.
- 5
Restoration handoff
A stainless-steel crown or filling is placed by your pediatric dentist after.
- 6
Follow-up
A short check-in visit to confirm healing.
The technology behind every appointment
- Microscope-guided technique scaled for small mouths
- CBCT 3D imaging when indicated
- Bioceramic pulp medicaments
- Behavioral guidance and child-friendly chairside manner
- Nitrous oxide, oral sedation when appropriate
Typical cost
Estimates only. Actual fees depend on your insurance plan, the complexity of the tooth, and any additional restoration work. We provide a written estimate before treatment so there are no surprises.
| Item | Estimated range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pulpotomy on a primary tooth | $250–$450 | — |
| Pulpectomy on a primary tooth | $350–$600 | — |
| Vital pulp therapy on a permanent tooth | $400–$700 | — |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why does a baby tooth need a pulpotomy if it is going to fall out anyway?
- Because the baby tooth is holding space for the permanent tooth that will erupt under it. Losing a baby tooth too early causes the adult tooth to come in crooked and can require orthodontic correction later. Saving the baby tooth with a pulpotomy avoids that and resolves the infection.
- How is pediatric endodontics different from adult treatment?
- The biology is different (pulps in young teeth heal differently), the anatomy is different (smaller, immature roots), and the approach is different (calmer pace, child-friendly explanations, behavioral guidance, sedation when needed). We treat children, teens, and adults — and the team adjusts to each.
- Will my child be sedated?
- Only if needed. Many children do well with nitrous oxide and a calm chairside. Oral conscious sedation is available for more anxious children, and IV sedation for extensive treatments. We recommend the lightest option that lets your child have a successful visit.
- How long does pediatric pulp therapy take?
- Most pulpotomies and pulpectomies are completed in a single 30–45 minute visit. The follow-up restoration with your pediatric dentist is a separate, shorter appointment.
- Do you accept dental insurance for kids?
- Yes. We accept most PPO plans, and we help families maximize the pediatric benefits available. Insurance is verified before treatment and a written estimate is provided.
Explore other endodontic services
Root Canal Therapy
Relieve pain and save your natural tooth with microscope-guided root canal therapy.
Apicoectomy
Microscope-guided surgical removal of infected tissue at the root tip when conventional retreatment is not an option.
Sedation Endodontics
Nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation options for anxious patients and longer treatments.
Regenerative Endodontics
Pulp-tissue regeneration for immature permanent teeth — preserving long-term root development.
Dental Trauma Care
Same-day evaluation and treatment for knocked-out, fractured, displaced, or split teeth — minutes matter.
Endodontic Retreatment
When a prior root canal hasn't healed, CBCT-guided retreatment gives your tooth a second chance.
Endodontic Microsurgery
Apicoectomy removes persistent infection at the root tip and preserves your natural tooth.
Cracked Tooth Care
Specialist diagnosis and treatment for cracked, fractured, or split teeth before they worsen.
CBCT 3D Imaging
High-resolution 3D scans for precise diagnosis and conservative treatment planning.
Emergency Endodontist
Same-day appointments for severe tooth pain, infection, and dental trauma.
Endodontic Second Opinions
Independent specialist review before you commit to a root canal or extraction.
References
- American Association of Endodontists. aae.org
- American Board of Endodontics. aae.org/about/abe
- NIH National Library of Medicine. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
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