Pulpectomy

What is a Pulpectomy?

A pulpectomy is a pediatric root canal treatment done on primary (baby) teeth when the entire pulp tissue — both in the crown and the roots — is infected or necrotic (dead). Unlike pulpotomy, which removes only the top (coronal) portion of the pulp, pulpectomy involves complete removal of the infected pulp from both the pulp chamber and root canals.

After thorough cleaning and disinfection, the canals are filled with a resorbable material (suitable for baby teeth) and the tooth is restored, often with a dental crown.

When Does a Child Need a Pulpectomy?

Pulpectomy is recommended when:

• There’s deep decay reaching the root canals
• A baby tooth is abscessed or severely infected
• There’s persistent toothache or sensitivity to hot/cold
• Swelling or pus formation is seen near a tooth
• A baby tooth has traumatic pulp exposure
• The pulp is dead or irreversibly inflamed

If left untreated, the infection may spread to adjacent teeth or affect the permanent tooth developing underneath. Pulpectomy saves the tooth and maintains the normal structure and function of your child’s mouth.

When Does a Child Need a Pulpectomy?

Pulpectomy is recommended when:

• There’s deep decay reaching the root canals
• A baby tooth is abscessed or severely infected
• There’s persistent toothache or sensitivity to hot/cold
• Swelling or pus formation is seen near a tooth
• A baby tooth has traumatic pulp exposure
• The pulp is dead or irreversibly inflamed

If left untreated, the infection may spread to adjacent teeth or affect the permanent tooth developing underneath. Pulpectomy saves the tooth and maintains the normal structure and function of your child’s mouth.

The Pulpectomy Procedure at CRAFT32 Dental Clinic

At CRAFT32, Dr. Sushila Malik ensures every step of the pulpectomy is performed in a calm, pain-free, and child-friendly manner. Here’s what to expect:

1. Diagnosis and X-ray

We begin with a gentle clinical evaluation and a digital X-ray to assess the extent of decay, pulp condition, and root structure.

2. Anesthesia and Comfort

Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area, ensuring a painless experience. For anxious children, we may offer mild sedation and distraction techniques.

3. Decay and Pulp Removal

All decayed tissue is removed, and access is made to reach the infected pulp. The entire pulp from the crown and root canals is thoroughly cleaned.

4. Disinfection

The canals are disinfected using safe, antibacterial solutions to eliminate all infection-causing bacteria.

5. Canal Filling

The empty canals are filled with a resorbable filling material like zinc oxide-eugenol paste or iodoform paste that naturally dissolves as the baby tooth sheds.

6. Tooth Restoration

The treated tooth is restored with a stainless steel or zirconia crown for long-term protection and strength.

The procedure usually takes 30–60 minutes and is completed in a single visit or two visits depending on infection severity.

Why Save a Baby Tooth?

You might wonder — why not just remove the infected tooth? Here’s why saving baby teeth matters:

• Guides permanent teeth into the correct position
• Helps in proper chewing, speech, and jaw development
• Prevents misalignment and orthodontic problems
• Maintains facial structure and aesthetics
• Avoids premature space loss requiring space maintainers

Pulpectomy preserves the natural tooth until it’s time for it to fall out naturally, promoting healthy dental development.

Pulpectomy vs. Pulpotomy: What’s the Difference?

At CRAFT32, we determine the best option through digital diagnostics and a thorough clinical exam.