Pulpectomy

Pulpectomy is a dental procedure that involves the removal of the entire pulp from the pulp chamber and root canal of a tooth. It is typically performed on deciduous teeth (baby teeth) in children when the tooth has been severely affected by dental caries (tooth decay) or trauma.

Procedure

A pulpectomy is performed under local anesthesia. The dentist or endodontist first drills a hole into the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canal. The infected pulp is then removed using a special tool called a barbed broach. After the pulp has been removed, the dentist cleans and enlarges the root canal using a series of endodontic files. The root canal is then filled with a material called gutta-percha, which helps to prevent future infection. The tooth is then sealed with a temporary or permanent filling.

Indications

A pulpectomy may be indicated in the following situations:

• Severe tooth decay that has reached the pulp of the tooth
• Trauma to the tooth that has resulted in damage to the pulp
• Infection or abscess in the pulp or root canal
• Severe toothache or pain

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, a pulpectomy carries some risks and potential complications. These may include:

• Infection or abscess
• Damage to surrounding teeth or tissues
• Failure of the procedure, requiring further treatment or extraction of the tooth
• Pain or discomfort following the procedure

Aftercare

Following a pulpectomy, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent further tooth decay or infection. This includes regular brushing and flossing, as well as regular dental check-ups. Pain or discomfort following the procedure can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

See Also

• Root canal treatment
• Endodontics
• Dental caries
• Tooth extraction

Pulpectomy Resources
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