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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 may be an alternative to pulling the tooth. Dr. Nathaniel Chan explains pulpectomy treatment for children.
But what about baby teeth? When performed on primary teeth, this process is a pulpectomy.
Today we will 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 pulpectomy and then fills the tooth.
What is a Pulpotomy for Baby Teeth?
A pulpotomy for baby teeth is very similar to a root canal, since it removes some of the infected pulp. This process may be safe for children, but it’s only used when necessary. An experienced pediatric dentist can determine when to opt for a pulpectomy vs a pulpotomy.
Signs of Pulp Damage
Damage or inflammation in the tooth’s pulp may cause significant pain, which may 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 may have a tooth pulp injury. Here are some signs that you should bring your child in for an assessment:
- Unexplained 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 Norwell, MA
Pulpectomy or pulpotomies may be safe for children, but they are often preventable. While injury may cause pulp damage, a common issue may be infection from poor dental hygiene. At Advanced Dental Arts, Dr. Nathaniel Chan and our team work to keep your child’s teeth as healthy as possible.
Through preventative children’s dentistry, we may help prevent pulpectomies in children. However, if your child may need a pulpectomy or pulpotomy, Dr. Nathaniel Chan, our experienced children’s dentist in Norwell is here to help.
Click the yellow button at the top to schedule your appointment with our children’s dental clinic today.
