If your child’s primary tooth has extensive decay, or has been damaged by trauma, action may be needed to restore the integrity of the tooth and prevent infection from spreading to surrounding teeth. After a set of X-rays are taken, we will be able to assess the extent of the infection and determine what treatment is recommended.
Pulpotomy
If the decay or trauma is confined to the crown of the tooth, a pulpotomy may be recommended. When a cavity gets really deep, close to the pulp of a tooth, or even into the pulp, the pulpal tissue becomes irritated and inflamed. A pulpotomy is when the inflamed pulp chamber, usually on a baby molar, is removed.
Dr. Abioro will remove all the infected material in the pulp of the crown only, and leave the living tooth root intact. After a pulpotomy on a baby molar, the empty space will be filled with dental cement and a crown will be placed to restore the tooth.
Pulpectomy
If the infection involves tissue in both the tooth crown and the tooth root, a pulpectomy may be the best option. In a pulpectomy, the entire pulp material is removed from both the crown and the roots. Then the pulp chamber and root canals will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Next, Dr. Abioro will fill the tooth and tooth roots with a dental cement, and finish with a crown.
