Our team specializes in pediatric dentistry, ensuring your little ones get comfortable and lasting dental care. Sometimes, more serious procedures are required, such as pediatric pulpectomy, also known as a “baby root canal.”
What is a pulpectomy procedure in children?
A pulpectomy procedure removes infected or damaged dental pulp from the pulp chamber and root canals of a primary tooth (baby tooth). After cleaning and disinfection, the space is filled with material to protect your child’s tooth until their permanent teeth come in. This will save the tooth, avoiding extraction and supporting the growth of healthy adult teeth in the future.
What is the difference between pediatric pulpotomy and pulpectomy?
Both procedures treat dental pulp issues and complications, but they differ in scope:
- A pulpotomy procedure removes only the infected pulp in the pulp chamber, leaving healthy root pulp intact.
- A pulpectomy clears all pulp from both the chamber and root canals when an infection spreads deeper.
What materials are used in pediatric pulpectomy?
This procedure will typically use biocompatible, child-safe materials (zinc oxide or calcium hydroxide) to fill the treated tooth. These seal the canals, prevent reinfection, and support the baby tooth until it’s ready to fall out and be replaced by the adult tooth.
Is pulpotomy painful for kids?
When done right, pulpotomies aren’t painful. Local anesthesia will be used to numb the area to keep your child comfortable during the procedure; in fact, most will only feel mild pressure.
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