Pedodontics

A pulpotomy is a common dental procedure for children used to treat tooth decay that has reached the pulp, or inner tissue, of a tooth. It is often performed on baby (primary) teeth to preserve the tooth until it naturally falls out. During a pulpotomy, the dentist removes the infected or damaged portion of the pulp while leaving the healthy part intact. The space is then disinfected and filled with a medicated material to prevent further infection and promote healing. The tooth is usually capped with a crown to restore its function and protect it from future damage. Pulpotomies are crucial in maintaining a child’s oral health, as they prevent the need for early tooth extraction, which could lead to alignment issues with permanent teeth later on.

Pulpectomy is a dental procedure commonly performed on children’s teeth to treat severe tooth decay or infection that has reached the pulp—the innermost part of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels. In this procedure, the infected or damaged pulp tissue is entirely removed from both the crown and roots of the tooth. The tooth’s canals are then cleaned, disinfected, and filled with a biocompatible material to prevent further infection. Pulpectomy is often recommended when a baby tooth is severely decayed but needs to be preserved until it naturally falls out, ensuring the proper spacing and alignment of the permanent teeth. This procedure helps to relieve pain, eliminate infection, and save the tooth, promoting healthy oral development in children.

Fillings for children’s teeth are a common dental treatment used to restore teeth that have been damaged by cavities or decay. Pediatric dentists use fillings to seal the holes in a child’s tooth, preventing further decay and helping to preserve the tooth’s structure. These fillings are typically made from materials like composite resin, which is tooth-colored and blends in naturally, or amalgam, a durable silver-colored material. The process of getting a filling involves removing the decayed portion of the tooth, cleaning the area, and then filling it with the chosen material. This treatment not only restores the tooth’s function but also helps protect it from future decay, ensuring the child’s teeth remain healthy and strong as they grow. Pediatric dentists use techniques to keep children comfortable during the procedure, often using local anesthesia and explaining the process in a way that eases their fears.

Treatment under general anesthesia in pediatric dentistry is often recommended for children who require extensive dental work or who are unable to cooperate due to anxiety, fear, or special healthcare needs. General anesthesia allows the child to be completely unconscious, ensuring they experience no pain or distress during the procedure. This approach is especially beneficial for complex treatments, such as multiple fillings, extractions, or root canals, which might otherwise be too overwhelming for a young patient to endure while awake. Pediatric dentists work closely with anesthesiologists to ensure the child’s safety throughout the process, and the procedure is typically performed in a hospital or specialized dental facility equipped for this type of care. After the treatment, the child wakes up with no memory of the procedure, allowing for a stress-free experience.