Pulpectomy
Pronunciation: pul-PEK-toh-mee
The complete removal of the dental pulp from both the coronal and radicular portions of a tooth, effectively the root canal procedure for primary teeth.
Full Definition
A pulpectomy involves the total extirpation of the dental pulp from the crown and all root canals of a tooth. In permanent teeth, this process is synonymous with root canal treatment (RCT); in primary teeth, it is distinguished from a pulpotomy by the removal of the radicular as well as the coronal pulp. The canals are then cleaned, shaped, and filled with a resorbable material in primary dentition to accommodate natural root resorption. Editors must not use 'pulpectomy' interchangeably with 'pulpotomy' in paediatric dental records.
Usage
Usage note: When editing paediatric dental records, verify whether the procedure documented is a pulpotomy (coronal only) or a pulpectomy (complete). The distinction has clinical, billing, and legal implications.
In Context
- "Given the extent of pulpal necrosis, a pulpectomy was indicated rather than a pulpotomy for the primary canine." — Paediatric dental treatment notes
- "The operative report specified pulpectomy with ZOE (zinc oxide eugenol) obturation in a primary molar." — Operative dental report