Pulpectomy vs. Pulpotomy: What’s the Difference and Which Does Your Child Need? By Whyte Dental Studio, Bangalore

When your child has a severe toothache, especially in a milk tooth, it can be worrying — and hearing unfamiliar terms like pulpotomy and pulpectomy might make it more confusing. At Whyte Dental Studio, we’re here to break it down so you can make informed decisions about your child’s dental health.

Pulpectomy vs. pulpotomy

What Is the Pulp and Why Does It Matter?

Inside every tooth is a soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When decay or trauma reaches this inner layer, it can cause pain, swelling, or even infection. That’s when treatments like pulpotomy or pulpectomy are considered — especially in milk (primary) teeth.

What Is a Pulpotomy?

A pulpotomy is like a partial treatment of the tooth pulp. It’s done when:

• The top part of the pulp (in the crown) is affected by decay or trauma

• The root pulp is still healthy

Procedure:

The dentist removes only the infected portion of the pulp in the crown and applies a medicated dressing to preserve the healthy root pulp. The tooth is then sealed and usually covered with a crown.

Ideal for:

• Minor pulp infections in baby teeth

• When there’s no abscess or swelling

• Children with good oral hygiene habits

What Is a Pulpectomy?

A pulpectomy is a complete removal of the pulp tissue from both the crown and roots — essentially a baby tooth version of a root canal.

Procedure:

The entire pulp (infected or dead) is removed, the canals are cleaned and disinfected, and the space is filled with a child-safe material. The tooth is then restored with a crown.

Ideal for:

• Deep decay or advanced infection

• When both crown and root pulp are involved

• Signs of an abscess, swelling, or pus

Which One Does Your Child Need?

That depends on the severity of the infection and the condition of the tooth pulp. When it comes to Pulpectomy vs. Pulpotomy, our pediatric dental experts at Whyte Dental Studio carefully evaluate your child’s teeth — often using X-rays — to determine the most appropriate treatment. Our goal is always to save the natural tooth, minimize discomfort, and support healthy oral development.

Why It’s Important to Treat Infected Baby Teeth

Many parents assume baby teeth don’t need much care because they’ll eventually fall out. However, infected or decayed milk teeth can affect permanent teeth, cause pain, and interfere with speech or chewing. Early treatment prevents complications and promotes long-term oral health.

Trust Whyte Dental Studio with Your Child’s Smile

With a warm, child-friendly environment and expert pediatric dentists, Whyte Dental Studio ensures your little one receives gentle and effective care — whether it’s a pulpotomy, pulpectomy, or just a regular check-up.

Book your appointment today and let us help your child smile pain-free!