What Is Pulp Therapy In Pediatric Dentistry?
Although baby teeth do fall out and make way for adult teeth, if a baby tooth falls out too early or sustains trauma, it could have a lasting impact on the secondary or adult teeth.
In an effort to help pediatric patients have the best chance possible for healthy adult teeth, pulp therapy may often be a recommendation some pediatric dentists offer during your child’s appointment.
Pulp therapy, also known as a root canal, is used when damage has happened to the pulp inside the tooth, and treatment is needed to prevent the tooth from being lost entirely.
There are two types of pulp therapies your dentist may employ. They included:
- Polpotomy: This is when the root of the tooth has not yet been affected. A dentist will simply remove the infected pulp and then fill the hole with a compound material that stops the infection and reduces the inflammation. A crown may be placed to further protect the tooth from future decay.
- Pulpectomy: This is when a complete root canal is performed. During this procedure, the dentist removes all of the pulp inside the primary tooth. After the pulp is removed, a biocompatible material is used to fill in the area.
Generally, pulpectomies are less common for primary teeth and are instead used to save a damaged tooth.
Signs Your Child Has Pulp Damage
Signs of pulp damage can include a child complaining about a certain region or at the site of the infected tooth. Your child may also complain of:
- Difficulty sleeping due to the pain
- Sensitivity issues
- Swelling, sensitivity, inflammation, or redness around the gum region
- Extreme sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages
If your child is in need of pulp therapy, a pediatric dentist will provide a root canal treatment and a sedation technique will be used to help alleviate any pain or discomfort. Pulp therapy is regarded as one of the safest ways to remedy trauma to the pulp.
