When we think of root canals, we often associate them with adults. But did you know that sometimes kids need a root canal-like procedure, too? Even though baby teeth eventually fall out, it’s important to keep them healthy until they’re ready to come out naturally. In cases where a cavity has spread deep inside a tooth, treatments like a pulpectomy or pulpotomy may be recommended.
Let’s break down what these procedures involve and why they’re so important for your child’s dental health.
What Is a Pulpotomy?
A pulpotomy is a common procedure for baby teeth when tooth decay has reached the pulp—the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels—but hasn’t affected the root canals. During a pulpotomy, the dentist removes the infected or damaged portion of the pulp in the crown (the visible part of the tooth) while leaving the healthy pulp in the roots intact. The space is then cleaned and filled with a medicated material to prevent further infection, and the tooth is usually restored with a crown for durability.
Pulpotomies are sometimes called “baby tooth root canals,” although they are less invasive than traditional adult root canals. This treatment helps maintain the tooth’s function and guides proper development of the underlying permanent tooth.
What Is a Pulpectomy?
A pulpectomy is performed when the infection or damage has spread beyond the crown and into the tooth’s roots. In this procedure, the dentist removes all of the pulp tissue—both from the crown and the root canals. After cleaning and disinfecting the canals, the dentist fills the empty space with a resorbable material designed to break down naturally as the baby tooth loosens and falls out.
Just like a pulpotomy, a pulpectomy is typically finished with a crown to protect the tooth. Pulpectomies are necessary when the infection is more advanced and would otherwise risk spreading to surrounding teeth or tissues.
Why Is It Important to Save Baby Teeth?
You might wonder why a dentist would go to such lengths to save a tooth that will eventually fall out. The truth is, baby teeth play an essential role in your child’s oral health. They:
- Help guide permanent teeth into their proper positions.
- Support normal speech development.
- Allow your child to chew comfortably and eat a healthy diet.
- Maintain space in the jaw for adult teeth.
When a baby tooth is lost too early due to decay or infection, it can lead to shifting of the surrounding teeth, causing crowding or alignment problems when the permanent teeth come in. By preserving baby teeth with procedures like pulpotomies and pulpectomies, dentists help set the stage for a healthier smile in the future.
Preserving baby teeth through pulpectomy or pulpotomy ensures your child’s mouth stays healthy as they grow.
About the Practice
Surf’s Up Pediatric Dentistry is dedicated to providing fun, stress-free dental care for kids in a welcoming environment. Our team specializes in creating positive dental experiences while helping children maintain healthy smiles. From preventive checkups to restorative treatments like pulpotomies and pulpectomies, we’re here to support your child’s dental health every step of the way.
Call us at (402) 773-7873 or request an appointment online.