June 1, 2022

In pediatric dentistry, what is a pulpotomy?

Pediatric dentistry is concerned with the evaluation and management of children’s dental health. Children’s teeth should be evaluated by pediatric dentists on a regular basis for signs of caries and tooth decay. Cavities in an infant’s teeth affect a substantial percentage of youngsters aged two to eleven. When tooth decay becomes serious, it can lead to pulpitis or pulp irritation. If the child’s tooth is still alive and the decay has spread to the pulp, a pulpotomy may be indicated. Continue reading to learn how a pulpotomy can benefit your child.

Pulpotomies and pediatric dentistry

It can be excruciatingly painful when the pulp is irritated. Pulpitis is divided into two types. Reversible and irreversible pulpitis are the two types. Although reversible pulpitis is unpleasant when touched, it usually diminishes and can be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers. Excessive tooth mobility, unprovoked pain, and irritated soft tissue that isn’t caused by periodontal disease or gingivitis are examples of irreversible situations.

Diagnosis

An X-ray can reveal very deep and extensive dental decay. After the decay is removed, the dentist will decide if the tooth can be restored. If the tooth cannot be restored, it will need to be removed. Depending on the child’s age and the location of the tooth, additional decisions for space management or temporary replacement may be required.

This will help the permanent tooth to emerge properly. The dentist will then assess if the tooth’s nerve is still alive and irritated as a result of dental decay. A root canal or extraction may be preferable to a pulpotomy if the nerve is dead. It should be removed if the tooth is ready to be exfoliated to create a place for the eruption of the permanent tooth.

Treatment

Two methods can be used to prevent the degradation of an irritated nerve. The first method is an indirect pulp cap, which does not need the removal of the nerve or pulp chamber’s upper section. To reduce inflammation, promote healing, and prevent decay advancement, the dentist may apply medication on top of it. The pulpotomy, or removal of the pulp chamber above the region where the nerve commonly continues into the root or tooth roots, is the second successful alternative.

Medicine is also administered to the chamber’s base to keep the nerve in the root alive and prevent infection. The tooth will subsequently be restored by the dentist. A primary molar is frequently covered with a stainless steel crown. A composite restoration may be used on a front tooth.

Prevention

A healthy oral hygiene routine might help children avoid tooth pulp inflammation. Using fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash on a daily basis can assist to keep primary teeth healthy. Within six months of your child’s first teeth erupt, you should make an appointment with a dentist. Contact your pediatric dentist if you have any questions about pediatric dentistry or a pulpotomy.