Think a root canal for kids in Garland isn’t a vital procedure? In theory, it would be great if pediatric dentists didn’t have to perform them; however, because of tooth decay and cavities, pulp therapy is oftentimes necessary. Although baby teeth eventually fall out, they can become plagued by dental caries that go untreated. When this happens, a pulpotomy or pulpectomy must be performed. In this article, a pediatric dentist will discuss each of these treatments as well as why it’s important you help your child maintain healthy baby teeth until it’s time for them to fall out naturally.
What is a Pulpotomy vs. a Pulpectomy?
It might seem as if these two terms are interchangeable, but they are, in fact, different. A pulpotomy in Garland is a procedure that involves removing the pulp located inside the visible crown and leaving the remaining pulp inside the root canal untouched. This is commonly performed when pulpitis is present, which occurs when pulp inflammation inside the crown develops as a result of a cavity. If your child begins to complain of tooth sensitivity, you can expect their pediatric dentist to recommend this type of procedure.
A pulpectomy in Garland, however, removes all the pulp from the tooth. Not only does this alleviate pain caused by the infection, but it helps to save your child’s tooth from potential extraction. Untreated cavities are the most common reason for a pulpectomy, but it is also possible that it may be recommended if severe dental trauma occurs and reaches the inner pulp area of the primary tooth.
The Importance of Healthy Baby Teeth
Avoiding pulp therapy is always the goal for pediatric dentists; however, it is essential that you take an active role in helping your child better maintain their growing smile. Primary teeth will fall out, but until this happens naturally, they must remain healthy and free of cavities. The reason is that serious infection and damage can lead to necessary extractions. While this may not seem like a big deal, the removal of these baby teeth before it’s “time” can result in an improper eruption of their adult teeth. If they do not come in straight, your child may be faced with years of timely and costly orthodontic treatment.
Should your child develop a cavity, it’s always best to seek treatment early on. If pulp therapy is required, it is far better for their dentist to save the tooth than to extract it, as their natural tooth will allow them to eat and speak without difficulty.
It’s not always easy helping your little one get excited about oral hygiene. By working together with their pediatric dentist, you can reduce their risk for cavities and the need for pulp therapy, ultimately putting them on a successful path to a healthier smile.
About the Author
Does your child need pulp therapy? Do they have an untreated cavity that is causing significant pain? Dr. Adam Preece is a board-certified pediatric dentist who is ready to help. Earning his dental degree at The Ohio State University, he completed a two-year residency in pediatric dentistry at Women and Children’s Hospital in Buffalo, NY, and is a staff member at Children’s Health Dallas/Plano. Dr. Preece provides safe and effective pulp therapy services designed to alleviate pain and save baby teeth from extraction. If your little one needs the help of a skilled pediatric professional, visit our website or call (972) 309-9992.