What is a Pulpotomy vs. a Pulpectomy?

Most of the time, a child just needs a filling to fix a cavity, but sometimes this just isn’t enough. When this is the case, your child’s dentist may recommend a root canal for kids in Phillipsburg. It may sound like a procedure only for adults, but the truth is that many young smiles have untreated cavities that can result in a serious infection and intense pain. If your child is recommended for this type of treatment, it’s because their dentist is hoping to save their primary tooth from possible extraction. In this article, we’ll look at the difference between the two types of root canals, a pulpotomy and a pulpectomy, as well as why it’s important to ensure the health of your child’s baby teeth.

Your Child’s Baby Teeth: The Key to Healthy Adult Smiles

Although primary teeth are not permanent, it is essential you do everything you can to make sure they stay in place until it’s time for them to fall out. Why? To ensure their healthy, adult teeth erupt without problems, your child’s primary pearly whites serve as a sort of “blueprint.” If they fall out too soon, it can leave a gap that causes nearby teeth to shift and cover the vacated area. This can result in alignment problems that make it difficult for permanent teeth to erupt properly. As a result, your child can face years of orthodontic treatment to try and realign crooked and overcrowded teeth.

You may wonder why a child’s tooth might fall out early. Apart from facial trauma, tooth decay can result in serious infections that put their teeth at risk for extraction. But before removing the tooth, the dentist may try to save it by performing a pulpotomy or pulpectomy.

Root Canals for Kids: Pulpotomy vs. Pulpectomy

Helping your child maintain good oral habits at home is vital, but even if you’re diligent in your efforts, cavities can still form. If one is neglected and does not receive timely treatment, it can result in your child needing a root canal. Depending on the severity and location of the infection, the dentist may recommend either a pulpotomy or pulpectomy in Phillipsburg. If you’re wondering about the difference, here’s what you should know:

• Pulpotomy: A pulpotomy in Phillipsburg involves removing the infected pulp, which is the innermost layer of the tooth that consists of blood vessels, tissues, and nerves, from the crown of the tooth while leaving the remaining pulp inside the root canal intact. By performing a pulpotomy, your child’s dentist can save their tooth from extraction and effectively treat the existing tooth decay.
• Pulpectomy: A pulpectomy involves removing all pulp from the tooth. Not only does this help to alleviate pain, but it also removes the infection and keeps the primary tooth firmly in place.

No one wants their child to undergo a root canal, which is why it’s important you be proactive in helping your little one take care of their smile. Fortunately, should your child need one, their dentist will ensure they remain safe, comfortable, and completely at ease throughout the process. With regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings, you can keep their teeth healthy and decay-free as they grow.

About the Authors
Dr. Jeffrey DeMartino and Dr. N. Garcia DeMartino are dentists in Phillipsburg who believe in guiding young smiles. Working alongside parents to establish healthy oral habits at home, they recommend tips and advice to keep tooth decay and cavities at bay. Should a root canal be necessary, you can trust they will provide a safe and comfortable treatment while working to keep your child’s natural teeth in place. If you think your little one may be dealing with a serious cavity, visit our website or call (908) 859-5260.