Pulpotomy is a dental procedure involving the surgical removal of a portion of the pulp tissue within a tooth. This procedure is typically performed when part of the pulp tissue is infected or inflamed, but there is no severe infection in the deeper parts of the root canals. The goal of pulpotomy is to save the tooth and control the infection without resorting to more invasive treatments.

Why is Pulpotomy Performed?

• Infection Control: To prevent the spread of infection when the pulp tissue is infected or inflamed.
• Pain Relief: To alleviate pain caused by pulp infection or inflammation.
• Tooth Preservation: To save the tooth and maintain its function and aesthetics instead of extracting it.

How is Pulpotomy Performed?

1. Preparation and Anesthesia:

   • The dentist evaluates the tooth and takes an X-ray to determine the extent of the issue.
   • Local anesthesia is administered to ensure the procedure is pain-free.

2. Removal of Pulp Tissue:

   • An opening is made in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber.
   • The infected or damaged pulp tissue is removed using surgical instruments.

3. Disinfection and Filling:

   • The remaining pulp tissue is sterilized, and an appropriate filling material is placed over it.
   • The top of the tooth is sealed with a temporary or permanent filling.

4. Restoration:

   • For long-term protection, a crown or permanent filling is applied to the tooth.

Advantages of Pulpotomy

• Preserves Tooth Vitality: Allows the tooth to remain functional without complete extraction.
• Pain Relief: Eliminates pain by removing infected or inflamed pulp tissue.
• Prevents Infection Spread: Helps prevent the infection from spreading and causing more serious health issues.

Disadvantages of Pulpotomy

• Success Rate: Although the success rate is high, additional treatment may be needed in some cases.
• Temporary Solution: The tooth's condition should be monitored, and further treatments may be necessary.
• Risk of Complications: There is a risk of complications such as infection, bleeding, or issues during the healing process.

Pulpotomy is a crucial dental treatment for saving a tooth and controlling infection by removing part or all of the pulp tissue. Dentists perform this procedure carefully to preserve the tooth and relieve pain. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups post-treatment enhances the success of pulpotomy.