Pulpectomy: A pulpotomy or pulpectomy is essentially a root canal performed on primary teeth. Both procedures are commonly referred to as a “baby root canal.”
What is a Pulpectomy?
A pulpotomy and a pulpectomy are very similar, but they are not exactly the same thing. In a pulpotomy, the pediatric dentist only removes the pulp in the tooth’s crown, leaving the pulp in the roots. In a pulpectomy, the dentist removes all of the pulp and replaces the pulp in the roots with a strengthened filler, like cement. In a pulpectomy, the canal usually has to be reshaped as well.
Why Would My Child Need a Pulpectomy?
There are a number of reasons a pulp treatment may be necessary, including dental injuries, severe decay and infection, or inflammation in the tooth pulp. The pulp of a tooth can become damaged if the tooth is cracked or if a cavity becomes severe enough to penetrate the first two layers of the tooth. In cases where only the top of the tooth is affected, a pulpotomy will often suffice. However, a cautionary approach is necessary when deciding which procedure is best for your child because this kind of tooth infection, if left untreated, can spread to other parts of their body and cause a lot of additional pain and damage. In many cases, it is best to perform the full pulpectomy to ensure that no infected pulp is left behind to decay and cause problems later. It is important to trust your child’s pediatric dentist’s evaluation of the severity of the situation.
What is Tooth Pulp?
The tooth pulp is made up of nerves and blood vessels that deliver nutrients to the teeth to keep them healthy, and it is the most important part of the tooth. The pulp is located in the middle of the tooth, protected by the first layer (enamel) and the second layer (dentin). It serves functions like sensation, nutrient replenishment, and the formation of dentin. The pulp is commonly known as the nerve and is often the part of the tooth that requires attention when a patient is suffering from a toothache.
Why Are Primary Teeth Even Important?
Some patients and parents may wonder why it is necessary to perform a pulpotomy or pulpectomy on a primary tooth since the patient will lose the tooth long before they reach adulthood. While it is true that the patient will still lose the tooth in question eventually, it is important to address infections in primary teeth because they can be very painful and can also cause lasting damage that spreads all the way down to the permanent tooth before it even comes in.
Contact Our Children’s Orthodontist and Pediatric Dentist El Cajon, La Mesa, and San Diego, CA
If your child requires a pulpotomy or a pulpectomy, our pediatric dental staff here at Children’s Braces and Dentistry will ensure that they are comfortable and cared for throughout the procedure.
Children's Braces and Dentistry
Review Us On
FAQ
- What is pulpectomy?
A pulpectomy in La Mesa is a root canal procedure that is done on children. Typically children have to get pulpectomies because they have bad cavities or broken teeth. It is not uncommon for children to have to have this procedure done.
- What do you need to know about pulpectomy?
A pulpectomy in El Cajon is the process and procedure of removing the pulp from your tooth and roots. The empty spaces are then filled with a filling, also known as a crown, that protects the tooth from future damage.
- What is the difference between pulpotomy and pulpectomy?
A pulpotomy is what is being removed during the pulpectomy procedure. Pulpectomy in El Cajon is a root canal procedure that is done on children to help save and repair a damaged tooth. If you think your child needs a pulpectomy, please give us a call.
- What is a baby root canal?
A baby root canal in La Mesa is also known as a pulpectomy. It is the process of removing pulp or infected area of the tooth and then covering up the tooth to protect it from further damage. If you think your child needs a baby root canal, give us a call today.
- Are root canals safe for babies?
A baby root canal in El Cajon is safe for babies. It can be more harmful to your baby if you let their tooth worsen and cause them pain. A baby root canal is safe, and our pediatric dentists know exactly what to do and how to handle the procedure without causing pain or discomfort.