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Pulpectomy vs Pulpotomy Indication — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModeratePaediatric DentistryPulpectomy vs Pulpotomy IndicationNDEB AFK

Which of the following is the primary reason for performing a pulpectomy rather than a pulpotomy on a primary molar?

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Correct answer: B — The pulp is necrotic with clinical and/or radiographic evidence of infection extending into the radicular pulp

A pulpectomy (removal of both coronal and radicular pulp) is indicated when the radicular pulp is irreversibly inflamed or necrotic — evidenced by symptoms of irreversible pulpitis (spontaneous pain, swelling) or radiographic signs of infection (periapical/interradicular radiolucency, internal resorption). A pulpotomy removes only the coronal pulp and is indicated when only the coronal pulp is inflamed but the radicular pulp remains vital and uninflamed. The key distinction is whether the infection/inflammation has spread beyond the coronal pulp.

Reference: Dean – McDonald and Avery's Dentistry for the Child and Adolescent, 11th ed., 2021