Pulpectomy and pulpotomy: endodontic treatments in pediatric dentistry

Pulpectomy and pulpotomy are two treatments performed from the specialty of pediatric dentistry. Its similarity to endodontics is evident. Well, these dentistry techniques share the same objectives: to protect the dental pulp and the roots of the tooth. However, endodontics is applied in adult dentures. While pulpectomy and pulpotomy are aimed at primary teeth, not secondary ones.

Causes and symptoms to apply pulpectomy and pulpotomy

Poor oral hygiene is a clear trigger in most oral pathologies. And according to our pediatric dentists in Malaga, the same thing happens in this case. Inadequate hygiene care of children, and excessive consumption of sugars, leading to the appearance of dental caries. The pathology destroys the enamel and tooth tissues and leads to the need to apply these dental treatments. However, the need for a pulpectomy or pulpotomy can also be caused by trauma. This can trigger damage to the pulp or tooth root.

Regardless of the cause, there are certain signs that inform us about the need to perform a pulpectomy or pulpotomy on the child. Our children’s dentists emphasize the following symptoms:

• Sensitivity to cold or heat
• Chewing ailments and eating difficulties
• Bleeding and presence of pus around the tooth
• Chipped teeth or dental cracking.

Similarities and differences between pulpectomy and pulpotomy.

Pulpectomy and pulpotomy recreate endodontic treatment focused on temporary dentures. From our children’s dental clinic, we clarify that both techniques are very similar. However, pulpectomy is indicated in more severe cases. And pulpotomy is a simpler technique.

The pulpotomy treatment aims to partially remove the dental pulp. Therefore, it acts exclusively on those areas that are affected. In this way, healthy nerve tissue is maintained, and the tooth is easily rebuilt.

For its part, the pulpectomy technique requires more complex steps: because all the dental pulp is finished. In addition, it acts on the dental roots. It is indicated in cases where the nerve is damaged. For this reason, all the affected tissues are removed, the entire nerve is extracted and we seal it before reconstructing the tooth.

Techniques for Treating Pulpotomy and Pulpectomy

Both techniques require a previous dental inspection, an exploration with the patient. And a 3D scanner procedure to identify the degree of affection. Likewise, in both cases the affected pulp is extracted. But in the pulpotomy you go directly to the reconstruction. While with the pulpectomy, we act on the root to safeguard the nerve tissue before rebuilding the tooth.