Final answer:
A pulpectomy is a dental procedure performed on primary teeth to remove the infected pulp tissue and save the tooth from extraction. It involves numbing the area, removing the decayed or infected parts of the tooth, and accessing and removing the pulp tissue from the pulp chamber and root canals.
Step-by-step explanation:
A pulpectomy is a dental procedure performed on primary teeth. It involves the complete removal of the pulp tissue from the pulp chamber and root canals of a primary tooth. The pulp tissue is the soft, inner part of the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels.
The pulpectomy procedure is usually necessary when a primary tooth has extensive decay or infection that cannot be treated with a simple filling. By removing the infected pulp, the dentist aims to save the tooth from extraction and alleviate any pain or discomfort the child may be experiencing.
During the pulpectomy, the dentist will first numb the area around the tooth with local anesthesia. They will then use dental instruments to remove the decayed or infected parts of the tooth and access the pulp chamber. The pulp tissue will be carefully removed from the pulp chamber and root canals. After the pulpectomy, the dentist may place a medication inside the tooth to prevent further infection, and a dental material will be used to seal the tooth. In some cases, a crown may be placed on the tooth to protect it.