When exploring options in Ellicott City, Maryland for root canal therapy, you’ll find a lot of information on the two most common procedures: the traditional root canal treatment and the apicoectomy.
However, there are also lesser-known procedures for a tooth infection that may preserve a greater amount of the natural tooth—a pulpotomy.
Pulpotomies are most often performed on children who still have their baby teeth, as the procedure is able to protect the still-developing tooth root. With that said, there are times in which a pulpotomy for adults may be an option.
If you need a root canal, or possibly a pulpotomy, Access Endodontics can help. Our experienced endodontists, Dr. Burton Waxman and Dr. Lina Jarboe are able to assess your tooth and determine which procedure is right for you. Their focus is on protecting your natural teeth and saving your smile. Contact us today at 410.304.7226 to learn more.
What Is a Pulpotomy?
A pulpotomy is a procedure performed on an infected tooth in which the infected dental pulp found in the visible part of the tooth, or the crown, is removed while the pulp in the hidden part of the tooth, or the root, is left intact. This is done to protect the tooth root, particularly in children who have teeth that are still in the developmental stage.
What Is a Pulpotomy for Adults?
This procedure is not performed on adults nearly as frequently as it is on children who still have their primary teeth. However, there are circumstances in which an adult pulpotomy can save a natural tooth and eliminate the infection without removing all of the dental pulp.
An adult pulpotomy may be recommended if you:
- Have significant tooth decay near the dental pulp
- Have a tooth infection that has not reached the root
- Are unable to get a root canal immediately
Your dentist or endodontist can assess your oral health and determine whether a root canal or a pulpotomy is the correct approach for you. Speak with them today or schedule an appointment to learn more.
The Pulpotomy Treatment Procedure
During a pulpotomy, the endodontist will first numb the area with a local anesthetic so that the procedure is as comfortable as possible. Patients with dental anxiety may also receive some form of sedative during treatment.
Next, all of the decay in the infected tooth will be removed to prevent further contamination of the inner tooth.
Then, the endodontist will drill into the tooth. This allows them to access and remove the dental pulp contained within the tooth’s crown. Should they find the infection to be more severe than expected, they may perform a root canal or recommend that the tooth be extracted.
Once the pulp has been successfully removed, the endodontist will apply medication to the remaining pulp to protect it from infection. They will then fill the tooth with dental cement and seal it off with a special material. Once complete, the dentist will place a dental crown over the tooth to provide it with extra protection and support.
Pulpotomy Recovery
The pulpotomy treatment procedure will only take about a half hour to 45 minutes to complete. Patients should anticipate some swelling and discomfort, but over-the-counter pain relievers should help.
The endodontist will also provide a list of recommendations to ensure the success of the treatment, this will include what to stay away from during the recovery. By following these instructions, the recovery should be fairly quick.
Pulpotomy for Adults from Access Endodontics
If you’re in need of a root canal or possibly a pulpotomy, speak with your dentist, they will refer you to a qualified endodontist for the procedure.
At Access Endodontics, our endodontists rely on their extensive experience to recommend the appropriate procedure while offering excellent chairside care. We strive to make your experience with us as comfortable and anxiety-free as possible. Contact Access Endodontics by calling 410.304.7226 to learn more today.