Pediatric Dentistry
A pulpectomy is a root canal-style treatment for baby teeth in which all of the infected pulp is removed from the crown and the roots. The canals are cleaned and filled with a special material that dissolves as the tooth naturally loosens.
It is used when infection has spread throughout the pulp of a primary tooth. The aim is to relieve pain and preserve the tooth where possible.
Benefits
- Treats infection in baby teeth
- Relieves pain and swelling
- May avoid early extraction
- Helps maintain space for permanent teeth
- Performed gently for children
What to Expect
- Examination and X-ray
- Local anaesthetic
- Removal of infected pulp from the canals
- Cleaning and disinfection
- Filling of canals with a resorbable material
- Crown or restoration to protect the tooth
Frequently Asked Questions
A pulpotomy removes only part of the pulp, whereas a pulpectomy removes all of it, including from the roots.
In most cases yes. The filling material is designed to dissolve as the baby tooth becomes ready to fall out.
Your dentist may recommend extraction and, if needed, a space maintainer.
