What Is the Difference Between a Pulpotomy & Pulpectomy? 

Taking care of a child's oral health is no easy task. Not only that brushing their teeth can be a challenge, but sometimes cavities can go undetected until they penetrate through the enamel and dentin and reach the pulp. When that happens, their dentist may recommend either a pulpotomy or pulpectomy.

What's the difference between the two? Keep reading to find out. 

What Is a Pulpotomy?

A pulpotomy is a dental procedure necessary when a cavity has reached the pulp chamber. The pulp chamber is the area of the tooth that contains the nerves and blood vessels that keep the tooth alive. 

During a pulpotomy, the dentist will remove the infected or damaged pulp from the pulp chamber. 

What Is a Pulpectomy?

A pulpectomy is a more invasive procedure usually required when the cavity has reached the pulp chamber and the root canals. 

During a pulpectomy, the dentist will remove all of the infected pulp from the pulp chamber, root canals, and the root of the affected tooth. 

This procedure is more complex and quite similar to a root canal. 

The Difference Between a Pulpotomy and Pulpectomy

As you can see, the primary difference between a pulpotomy and a pulpectomy is the extent of the procedure. A pulpotomy is a less invasive procedure that only involves removing the infected pulp from the pulp chamber. A pulpectomy, on the other hand, is more complex and involves removing all of the infected tissue from the pulp chamber, root canals, and the root of the affected tooth.

What Can Your Child Expect During a Pulpotomy or Pulpectomy? 

Although the extent of the procedure differs (and, as such, the length of the treatment,) your child can rest assured that they will be safe while receiving the treatment. For starters, the dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the mouth so they won't feel anything during the treatment. Moreover, at Green Leaf Dental, we also offer dental sedation to help your child feel more relaxed and make it easier for them to sit still during the treatment. 

Once the anesthetic kicks in, the dentist will drill a small hole through your child's enamel and dentin until they reach the pulp chamber. Then, they will remove all the infected tissue, clean and disinfect the tooth, and seal it. If the cavity is significant, the dentist may use a crown to protect and restore the tooth. 

Is Your Child Suffering from Tooth Decay? Green Leaf Dental Can Help! 

At Green Leaf Dental, we offer a wide range of services for children of all ages, from infancy until their teeth years. Whether it's preventive care, sealants, dental crowns, or pulp therapy, we can help restore the smile of your little one. 

You can call us at (206) 316-2351 or book your appointment online with just a few clicks.