At Omaha dental practice maintaining good dental health is critical for kids. “Pulpotomy” and “root canal” are two phrases that frequently lead to misunderstandings while discussing dental operations. Even though they are both concerned with treating dental problems, they are separate processes with different goals and results. We will go into the specifics of pulpotomy and root canal treatments in this article, outlining their distinctions and assisting you in determining when each surgery is required.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy extends above and beyond where a pulpotomy is selected for teeth with less severe infection or pulp damage. If the infection in your tooth is severe and involves the whole pulp. The pulp is completely removed with this procedure. The tooth is then sealed to prevent bacteria from reentering and causing more harm by filling it with a flexible substance called gutta-percha. We will implant a crown for additional strength and protection if the initial infection caused your tooth to become weaker.
You may need root canal therapy if:
- Dead pulp
- Overlooked a cavity
- You’ve cracked a tooth and oral bacteria was able to enter
- The pulp has become infected and resulted in a dental abscess
What is Pulpotomy?
The least intrusive procedure for treating infected tooth pulp is a pulpotomy. Only the tooth’s pulp in the crown is extracted during this process. The tooth’s roots remain undamaged. Following the extraction of a portion of the tooth’s crown and the decomposing or necrotic pulp within, a dentist will place a medicated filling over the tooth’s remaining roots. The dentist will often subsequently place a crown to help safeguard the tooth.
Children who have extensive decay in their infant teeth typically require pulpotomies. Adult pulpotomies are sometimes advised because of data that indicates they can be beneficial in certain situations. However, the process might occasionally be more difficult and less successful for adults.
Your child may need a pulpotomy if:
- There is a minor tooth infection that hasn’t yet resulted in a dental abscess
- Tooth discomfort or pain is a recent
- A primary tooth has severe decay that has reached the pulp
- The pulp in a permanent tooth has been affected by trauma or a cavity
While treating problems within the tooth pulp is the goal of both pulpotomy and root canal procedures, parents can make more informed decisions about their children’s dental care and make sure they receive the best treatment for their individual needs by being aware of the differences between these procedures.
