If an adult tooth suffers from extensive damage or infection, it may require a root canal. Root canals remove the damaged pulp and then seal off the tooth, and they are a great alternative to pulling the tooth.
But what about baby teeth? When performed on primary teeth, this process is a pulpectomy.
Today we’ll examine a pulpectomy in a child, and help answer the question “what is a pulpotomy for baby teeth.”
Pulpectomy in a Child
Pulpectomy and pulpotomy are similar, but not exactly the same. For a pulpotomy, the dentist removes the pulp from the tooth’s crown. The pulp in the roots stays. On the other hand, the dentist removes all of the pulp for a pulpotomy and then filled in the tooth.
What is a Pulpotomy for Baby Teeth?
A pulpotomy for baby teeth is very similar to a root canal, since it removes all of the infected pulp. This process is safe for children, but it’s only used when absolutely necessary. An experienced pediatric dentist knows when to opt for a pulpectomy vs a pulpotomy.
Signs of Pulp Damage
Damage or inflammation in the tooth’s pulp can cause immense pain, which can be even worse for kids. You cannot see the pulp with the naked eye, so it can be hard to determine the source of pain for kids. Only a dentist can determine if your child has a tooth pulp injury. Here are some signs that you should bring your child in for an assessment:
- Inexplicable tooth pain
- Extreme sensitivity to cold or hot
- Loosening of the painful tooth
- Swelling or redness in the gums around the tooth
Children’s Dentist in Quincy
Pulpectomy or pulpotomies are safe for children, but they are often preventable. While injury can cause pulp damage, the most common issue is infection from poor dental hygiene. Advanced Dental Arts, we do everything we can to keep your child’s teeth as healthy as possible.
Through preventative children’s dentistry, we are often able to prevent pulpectomies in children. However, if your child does need a pulpectomy or pulpotomy, our experienced children’s dentist in Quincy is here to help.
Click the yellow button at the top to schedule your appointment with our children’s dental clinic today.