The pulp is the part of the tooth where tissue and nerves exist. When tooth decay is affecting this region of the tooth, a pulpotomy or pulpectomy is a procedure that may be able to save the tooth.
More About Pulpotomy & Pulpectomy:
If you have tooth decay affecting the center of your tooth where the pulp is located, both of these procedures may benefit you. A pulpotomy is a procedure that removes the tissue just in the crown of the tooth; that is the part of the tooth that is above the gums. A pulpectomy would remove tissue from the crown and also the root.
This procedure is done in order to save the tooth. Once tooth decay reaches the pulp and the nerves, you can start feeling a lot of pain. A pulpotomy will remove the nerves affected.
Parts of the Tooth:
- Enamel
- Crown
- Dentin
- Pulp
- Root
Why Might My Child Need a Pulpotomy:
The pulp area of the tooth is located closer to the surface in baby teeth. This means that your child’s baby teeth are more susceptible to having tooth decay and cavities reach this region of the tooth.
A pulpotomy procedure usually goes in-hand with dental crowns as once the pulpotomy is completed, a crown will be placed over the tooth that was affected. This procedure is meant to save the tooth while removing the affected areas.
Children’s Dental Health Center
