Open: Mon – Sat 9:00am-6:00pm | Sun – Closed
A pulpotomy — often called a “baby root canal” — saves a baby tooth affected by deep decay from extraction. It removes the infected portion of the pulp inside the tooth while preserving the healthy root tissue, allowing the baby tooth to remain in place until it naturally falls out. Keeping baby teeth matters: they maintain space for permanent teeth, support chewing and speech, and guide jaw development. Paynless Dental provides children’s pulpotomies across three Sydney clinics — Toongabbie, North Ryde and Blacktown. CDBS bulk billing for eligible children aged 2–17 at all three clinics. Open Saturday. Free on-site parking. Call (02) 8677 9094.
| Procedure name | Pulpotomy — also called “baby root canal” or “partial pulpotomy” |
| For | Baby teeth (primary teeth) with deep decay reaching the pulp — also used in some mature permanent teeth |
| Goal | Remove infected coronal pulp · preserve healthy root pulp · save the tooth |
| After pulpotomy | Stainless steel crown (SSC) placed on baby molars · tooth-coloured restoration for front teeth |
| Appointments | Usually 1 appointment · 45–60 minutes |
| Anaesthetic | Local anaesthetic — not painful during procedure |
| Success rate | 80–95% in primary teeth |
| CDBS | Bulk billed for eligible children aged 2–17 · up to $1,095 over 2 consecutive calendar years |
| Health funds | All major funds · HICAPS on-the-spot |
| Clinics | Toongabbie · North Ryde · Blacktown (24×7 Dental Suite) |
| Saturday | Toongabbie 9:30am–4pm · North Ryde & Blacktown 9:30am–3pm |
| Phone | (02) 8677 9094 · Blacktown: (02) 8809 2221 |
Prepared by: Paynless Dental Editorial Team Clinical review: Dr Payal Gupta · Principal Dentist · AHPRA Registered Dentist
Reviewed: July 2026 · Next scheduled review: July 2027
This page provides general educational information about pulpotomy for children at Paynless Dental’s three Sydney clinics. CDBS information sourced from Services Australia. For independent guidance see Healthdirect — Children’s Dental Health and ADA — teeth.org.au. Verify AHPRA registration at ahpra.gov.au. Individual patient testimonials are not reproduced in compliance with AHPRA advertising guidelines.
Inside every tooth — baby tooth or adult tooth — there is a soft core called the pulp, which contains the tooth’s nerve, blood vessels and connective tissue. When tooth decay is deep enough to reach the pulp, the pulp becomes infected and painful. If left untreated, the infection spreads and the tooth is lost.
A pulpotomy removes only the infected top portion of the pulp (the part inside the crown of the tooth) while leaving the healthy pulp inside the roots intact. The treatment chamber is then cleaned, a medicated material is placed to keep the remaining root pulp healthy, and the tooth is restored — typically with a stainless steel crown (SSC) on baby molars, or a tooth-coloured filling on front teeth.
The procedure is done under local anaesthetic — your child will not feel pain during the treatment. Most pulpotomies are completed in a single appointment of approximately 45–60 minutes.
After a pulpotomy, the baby tooth has had a significant portion of its internal structure removed. This makes it more vulnerable to fracture — especially the back baby molars, which bear the force of chewing. A stainless steel crown (SSC) is placed over the treated tooth to:
Stainless steel crowns on baby teeth are strong, reliable and long-lasting. They fall out naturally with the baby tooth when it is ready to shed.
| Procedure | What is removed | Used for | Followed by |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pulpotomy | Infected coronal pulp (top portion, in the crown) — root pulp is preserved | Baby teeth with deep decay reaching the pulp · some mature permanent teeth | Stainless steel crown (molars) or filling (front teeth) |
| Pulpectomy | All pulp — both from crown and all root canals — completely removed | Baby teeth where infection has spread into the roots · more extensive involvement | Resorbable root filling + stainless steel crown |
| Root canal therapy | All pulp tissue from crown and roots — shaped, cleaned and filled | Permanent teeth with irreversible pulp disease or necrosis | Core filling + crown recommended for back teeth |
In these cases, extraction may be the better option — and a space maintainer is then usually recommended to hold the gap.
Your child’s dentist determines whether a pulpotomy is appropriate after a clinical examination and X-ray. Not every decayed baby tooth needs a pulpotomy — the extent of decay, the tooth’s vitality, and how close the child is to naturally losing the tooth all factor into the decision. Call (02) 8677 9094 for an assessment.
Many parents ask: “If it’s just a baby tooth, why not just pull it?” This is a reasonable question with an important answer — baby teeth do much more than hold a space on a child’s smile. They have active, important roles that last until each tooth naturally falls out.
| Pulpotomy (save the tooth) | Extraction (remove the tooth) | |
|---|---|---|
| Space maintenance | ✅ Baby tooth holds the space naturally for the permanent tooth below | ⚠ Gap can close — often requires a separate space maintainer appliance |
| Chewing function | ✅ Child can chew normally on both sides | ⚠ Missing back molar affects chewing ability and nutrition |
| Speech development | ✅ Teeth support correct tongue placement for speech sounds | ⚠ Early loss of front teeth may temporarily affect speech |
| Permanet teeth eruption | ✅ Permanent tooth guided into correct position by the baby tooth | ⚠ Without guidance or a maintainer, neighbouring teeth drift into the gap |
| Orthodontic consequences | ✅ Normal development path maintained | ⚠ Crowding, impaction and misalignment risk if gap closes |
| Child experience | ✅ Done under local anaesthetic · single appointment · no gap or swelling | ⚠ Extraction also under local anaesthetic, but leaves a gap the child is aware of |
| Follow-up required | Stainless steel crown placed at same or next appointment | Space maintainer often recommended — adds another procedure |
In most cases where a pulpotomy is clinically feasible, saving the baby tooth is the preferred option. However, not every tooth is suitable — your dentist will discuss the specific situation for your child and recommend the best course of action. Call (02) 8677 9094.
Your child’s dentist examines the tooth clinically and takes a digital X-ray to assess the extent of decay, the condition of the root pulp, and whether a pulpotomy is appropriate. A written treatment plan and itemised quote is provided to parents. CDBS eligibility is confirmed at this visit. If the decay is limited to the crown pulp and the root pulp appears healthy on X-ray, a pulpotomy can proceed — often at the same appointment. Call (02) 8677 9094 to book.
A topical anaesthetic gel is applied to the gum before the local anaesthetic injection, minimising any initial discomfort. Once the area is fully numb, your child should feel no pain during the procedure — only some mild pressure. Our team explains each step using child-friendly language and works at the child’s pace. If your child is anxious, mention this when booking so extra time can be scheduled.
The decayed outer portion of the tooth is opened to access the pulp chamber. The infected coronal pulp (the portion inside the crown) is carefully removed using a small instrument. The area is gently cleaned with an antiseptic rinse. A biocompatible medicament — typically a modern agent such as Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) or Biodentine — is placed over the remaining healthy root pulp to promote healing and prevent further infection.
For baby molars, a stainless steel crown (SSC) is fitted and cemented over the treated tooth in the same appointment. The crown protects the tooth from fracture and decay for the remaining years until it naturally exfoliates. For front baby teeth, a tooth-coloured composite restoration is usually sufficient. The entire appointment typically takes 45–60 minutes including the crown placement.
Your child’s mouth will remain numb for 1–2 hours after the appointment — avoid hard or very hot foods until the numbness wears off to prevent accidental biting. Some mild soreness around the gum where the injection was given is normal for 24–48 hours. Children’s paracetamol (age-appropriate dose) can be given if needed. Most children return to normal eating within 24 hours. If your child has persistent pain, swelling or the tooth feels loose, call (02) 8677 9094 promptly.
Pulpotomy in primary teeth has a clinical success rate of 80–95% when performed on suitable cases. A successful pulpotomy means the tooth remains comfortable, functional and free from abscess until it naturally exfoliates — which can be several years. Regular 6-monthly check-ups and X-rays are important to monitor the treated tooth. If the pulpotomy is not successful (infection spreads to the roots), extraction with a space maintainer is usually the next step. Signs of a problem to watch for: renewed pain or swelling around the treated tooth, dark discolouration of the crown, or a visible pimple/gum bump near the tooth. If you notice any of these, call (02) 8677 9094 promptly — do not wait for the next scheduled appointment.
Pulpotomy (ADA item 416) is an eligible service under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) for eligible children aged 2–17. Paynless Dental bulk bills eligible CDBS patients at all three clinics — no out-of-pocket cost for the pulpotomy itself within the $1,095 CDBS threshold. The stainless steel crown (ADA item 887) placed after pulpotomy is also a CDBS-eligible service. Call (02) 8677 9094 to confirm your child’s eligibility.
Eligible Paynless Dental CDBS patients pay nothing for the procedure. Where CDBS is exhausted or a child is not eligible, all health funds and 5 payment plans are available. See payment options →
A written itemised quote with ADA item codes is provided at consultation before treatment. For eligible CDBS children, pulpotomy and the stainless steel crown are typically both bulk billed — no out-of-pocket cost.
| Service | ADA Item | From (private) | CDBS (eligible children)? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial examination + X-ray | 011 + 022 | From $80 | ✅ Covered |
| Pulpotomy (per tooth) | 416 | From $300 | ✅ Covered |
| Stainless steel crown (baby molar) | 887 | From $300 | ✅ Covered |
| Composite filling (front tooth, if not crown) | 521/522 | From $150 | ✅ Covered |
| Typical single appointment total (molar) | — | From $600–$750 | Bulk billed for eligible children |
| CDBS eligible children (up to $1,095 threshold) | — | No gap | ✅ Full cover in most cases |
All dentists are AHPRA-registered General Dentists. Our team works at the child’s pace, uses child-friendly language and never rushes anxious young patients. If your child is anxious about dental visits, mention this when booking. Choose your preferred dentist when booking — subject to availability. Verify registration at ahpra.gov.au →
BDS (Manipal University, 2004) · Further training in Dental Implantology & Progressive Orthodontics · Principal Dentist since 2011 · 20+ years
✓ Accepting New Patients · Children Welcome
Toongabbie · North Ryde · Blacktown
BDS (James Cook University) · PG Dip. Implantology · PG Dip. Orthodontics · AHPRA Registered
✓ Accepting New Patients · Children Welcome
Toongabbie only
BDS · FICOI — Fellow, International Congress of Oral Implantologists (USA) · 23+ years · AHPRA Registered
✓ Accepting New Patients · Children Welcome
Toongabbie · North Ryde
His overseas Masters Prosthodontics is not an AHPRA-ratified specialist qualification.
BDS (MUHS, 2007) · Invisalign Provider · 17+ years · AHPRA Registered
✓ Accepting New Patients · Children Welcome
Toongabbie only
Her overseas MDS in Orthodontics is not an AHPRA-ratified specialist qualification.
Affiliated partner clinic. Call ahead to confirm availability.
A pulpotomy removes only the infected top portion of the pulp (inside the crown of the tooth) while preserving the healthy root pulp — allowing the baby tooth to stay in the mouth until it naturally falls out. A root canal removes all pulp from both the crown and every root canal. Pulpotomy is less invasive and appropriate when decay has reached the pulp but not yet spread into the roots. For baby teeth, pulpotomy (or the more complete pulpectomy) is the equivalent of what root canal therapy is for permanent teeth. Call (02) 8677 9094 for an assessment.
No — the procedure is done under local anaesthetic. Your child will not feel pain during the treatment. A topical gel is applied before the injection to minimise any initial sting. After the appointment, the anaesthetic wears off over 1–2 hours, and some mild gum soreness near the injection site is normal for up to 48 hours. Children’s paracetamol (age-appropriate dose) manages this comfortably. Our team works at the child’s pace and explains every step. If your child is anxious, mention this when booking. Call (02) 8677 9094.
Yes. Pulpotomy (ADA 416) and the stainless steel crown placed afterwards (ADA 887) are both eligible services under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) for eligible children aged 2–17 — up to $1,095 over two consecutive calendar years. Paynless Dental bulk bills eligible CDBS patients at all three clinics with no gap. Confirm eligibility at servicesaustralia.gov.au or call (02) 8677 9094.
For eligible CDBS children — no out-of-pocket cost in most cases (both pulpotomy and stainless steel crown are CDBS-covered within the $1,095 threshold). For non-CDBS patients: pulpotomy from approximately $300 per tooth, plus stainless steel crown from approximately $300. A written itemised quote with ADA item codes is provided before any treatment. All health funds via HICAPS. Five payment plans (Afterpay, Humm, Denticare, TLC, Zip). Call (02) 8677 9094.
Baby teeth hold space for the permanent teeth developing below, support chewing and speech, and guide jaw development. Extracting a baby molar early often causes neighbouring teeth to drift into the gap — requiring a space maintainer and increasing the risk of crowding and orthodontic problems for the permanent teeth. A pulpotomy preserves all this function until the baby tooth naturally falls out. Extraction is appropriate when saving the tooth isn’t possible — in which case, a space maintainer is then usually recommended. Call (02) 8677 9094.
Yes, for back baby teeth (molars). After a pulpotomy, the tooth has had its internal structure significantly altered and is more vulnerable to fracture. A stainless steel crown (SSC) is placed to protect it, prevent further decay, and keep it functional until it naturally falls out. For front baby teeth, a tooth-coloured composite filling is usually sufficient. The crown is typically fitted at the same appointment as the pulpotomy — so it’s completed in one visit. Call (02) 8677 9094.
Usually 45–60 minutes for the complete appointment including the stainless steel crown — both done in a single visit. If your child is very anxious or the case is complex, a slightly longer appointment may be scheduled. Call (02) 8677 9094 to book and mention if your child needs extra time.
Avoid hard or very hot foods for the first 1–2 hours after the appointment while the mouth is still numb — to avoid accidental biting. Once the numbness has worn off, soft foods are most comfortable for the first 24 hours (e.g. yoghurt, mashed potato, pasta). Most children return to normal eating within 24 hours. Avoid very sticky foods (chewing gum, toffee) that could dislodge the fresh crown cement initially. Call (02) 8677 9094 if your child has ongoing discomfort after 48 hours.
Pulpotomy in primary teeth has a clinical success rate of approximately 80–95% when performed on suitable cases. A successful pulpotomy means the tooth remains comfortable and functional until it naturally falls out — which may be several years. The treated tooth is monitored at 6-monthly check-ups with X-rays. If the pulpotomy is not successful (signs: renewed pain, swelling, gum pimple near the tooth), extraction with a space maintainer is usually the next step. Call (02) 8677 9094 promptly if you notice any of these signs.
Watch for: renewed pain or toothache around the treated tooth · swelling or tenderness of the gum near the tooth · a visible pimple or bump on the gum near the root · dark discolouration of the tooth crown · the stainless steel crown feeling loose. These signs suggest the infection has spread into the roots. Call Paynless Dental on (02) 8677 9094 immediately — do not wait for the next scheduled check-up.
Yes — all three clinics are open Saturday. Toongabbie 9:30am–4pm · North Ryde 9:30am–3pm · Blacktown 9:30am–3pm. Saturday appointments are ideal for school-age children. CDBS bulk billing available. Free on-site parking. Book at /book-appointment/ or call (02) 8677 9094.
Yes. If your child is in pain from a decayed baby tooth, call (02) 8677 9094 — Paynless Dental reserves same-day emergency slots daily. An emergency assessment will determine whether a pulpotomy is appropriate, and in many cases the procedure can be completed at the same appointment, or antibiotics and pain relief are provided to manage the situation until the full appointment. Call as early as possible in the day for same-day availability.
Prepared by: Paynless Dental Editorial Team Clinical review: Dr Payal Gupta · Principal Dentist · AHPRA Registered Dentist
Reviewed: July 2026 · Next scheduled review: July 2027
This page provides general educational information about pulpotomy (baby root canal) for children at Paynless Dental Sydney. CDBS eligibility and coverage information sourced from Services Australia. Clinical success rate of 80–95% cited from published literature on primary tooth pulpotomy. For independent guidance see Healthdirect — Children’s Dental Health and ADA — teeth.org.au. All dentists AHPRA-registered General Dentists — verify at ahpra.gov.au. Individual patient testimonials are not reproduced in compliance with AHPRA advertising guidelines.
Information on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional dental advice, examination or diagnosis. Whether a pulpotomy is appropriate depends on individual clinical factors assessed at examination. CDBS subject to Medicare eligibility — confirm at Services Australia. Fees are indicative — written itemised quote with ADA item codes before treatment. Individual patient testimonials are not reproduced in compliance with AHPRA advertising guidelines. © 2026 Paynless Dental.
