If you’re like most parents, you may not think your child could ever need a root canal. While this would be nice to assume, it’s unfortunately not the case. Many children face the reality of needing this kind of treatment because of severe decay or damage. But did you know there are two types of procedures a child can experience? If you want to know more about the differences between a pulpotomy and a pulpectomy, read on.
How Necessary Are Root Canals for Kids?
If your child still has their baby teeth, you might think a root canal is not a necessary form of treatment. These teeth will eventually fall out, and they’ll get to start anew with their permanent teeth.
While this way of thinking isn’t entirely wrong, it’s also not completely right. Yes, baby teeth will fall out eventually, but how they are cared for while inside the mouth will determine the health of a child’s permanent teeth once they erupt.
There are several reasons why a root canal might be necessary, such as severe pain, your child has an infection that needs to be treated before it spreads further, or there is a tooth that doesn’t need to fall out just yet. A root canal can help to keep it in place a bit longer.
What Makes a Pulpotomy Different Than a Pulpectomy?
A pulpotomy is commonly performed when a child experiences what is known as pulpitis, which is when the pulp inside the tooth becomes inflamed because of an untreated cavity.
The process involves removing the pulp that exists within the crown. The remaining pulp that lives inside the root canal will remain untouched and intact.
A pulpectomy on the other hand is usually recommended when decay infects a tooth, and it remains untreated for a prolonged period of time. If it extends beyond the crown and into the root canal, it can lead to tooth sensitivity and intense pain. The treatment may also be recommended if severe trauma causes a tooth to crack or break.
To perform a pulpectomy, your child’s pediatric dentist will use local anesthesia before placing a dental dam over the area to isolate the tooth. The decayed portions of the tooth as well as the pulp will be removed before it is filled and capped with a custom crown.
By allowing your child’s dentist to perform a root canal, you help to ensure a brighter, healthier future once their permanent teeth move into place.
If your child is complaining of intense pain or sensitivity, contact us at (972) 393-9779.
About the Practice
At Tranquil Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we provide compassionate, high-quality pediatric dental care for children in Coppell, TX and surrounding communities including Irving, Carrollton, Lewisville, and Flower Mound. Our team focuses on preventive care, patient education, and creating a positive dental experience so children feel comfortable and confident at every visit.
Led by Dr. Kimberly Tran, a board-certified pediatric dentist in Coppell, TX, our practice is dedicated to helping children develop healthy smiles that support their overall growth and well-being.
If you have questions about your child’s dental health or would like to schedule an appointment with a trusted pediatric dentist in Coppell, TX, our team is here to help.
📞 Call us at (972) 393-9779 or contact our office online to get started.