When your child develops a cavity, a dental filling is usually all that is needed to treat the problem. However, when severe dental decay or a persistent toothache is present in baby teeth, a more complex form of treatment is required – pulp treatment. This process may sound unnerving to parents and children, but the truth is that it is safe and highly effective in keeping natural teeth in their current place. Read on to learn the difference between a pulpectomy and a pulpotomy as well as what you can do to help your little one maintain a healthier smile from the start.
What is the Difference Between a Pulpectomy and a Pulpotomy?
Similar to a “root canal” – a more common method of dental treatment that adults undergo when an infection exists in the innermost layer of a tooth – pulpectomies or pulpotomies are two different types of pulp treatment that are commonly performed on children with extensive dental decay.
A pulpectomy is a complex procedure that requires that a pediatric dentist remove the infected tissue inside a child’s tooth. This includes clearing out the pulp chamber, root canals, and the root. By doing this, pain is alleviated, and the child can maintain their healthy, natural tooth for longer.
A pulpotomy is less invasive because it only requires removing the infected pulp that exists within the crown. Any healthy pulp that remains within the root canal is left untouched.
Although it might seem odd to not remove the tooth instead, especially since they will eventually fall out on their own, the truth is that they should remain in place as long as possible. This creates a more stable and supportive foundation once it’s time for the adult teeth to erupt.
Ways to Keep Baby Teeth Healthy
Since no parent wants their child to have to endure a pulpotomy or pulpectomy, it’s important to make every effort to keep their baby teeth healthy until it’s time for them to fall out naturally. You can make sure your child’s pearly whites stay firmly in place by:
- Practicing good oral hygiene at home by brushing their teeth twice daily for two minutes, using a smear of toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice) if they are under 3 years of age. If they can spit, make sure they are using a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste while observing their brushing habits.
- Maintaining regular six-month dental checkups and cleanings with their pediatric dentist.
- Making sure they’re eating nutrient-rich foods and limit their access to sugary and carb-filled snacks.
- Having them wear appropriate mouth protection when playing sports or engaging in any kind of physical activity.
Pulp treatments are nothing to be scared of and are highly effective in getting kids out of pain quickly while also making sure they keep their teeth until nature says it’s time for them to go.
About the Author
Dr. Donna Barefield leads a team of expert dental professionals at her practice in Duncanville. Providing comprehensive services to children and teenagers, she and her team of pediatric dentists are equipped to provide complex care should it be necessary. If your child needs to have a pulpotomy or pulpectomy, contact us via the website or by calling (972) 298-7560 to find out how we can help you. We provide same-day emergency appointments for kids in pain and will ensure a safe and comfortable procedure that leaves your little one’s smile healthier in the long run.