Apexification in The Woodlands, TX - Woodlands Endodontics

What is Apexification?

What is Apexification?

Apexification is an endodontic procedure used to treat a permanent tooth with an open apex—meaning the root tip has not fully formed—and a dead or infected pulp.

Normally, the root of a permanent tooth continues to develop and close at the tip for a few years after it erupts. However, if the tooth suffers from trauma or severe decay and the pulp dies, this natural process stops, leaving the root with an open end.

The Apexification Procedure

The goal of apexification is to induce the formation of a hard tissue barrier at the root tip. This allows the tooth to be sealed with a traditional root canal filling, preventing further infection and saving the tooth from extraction. The procedure typically involves:

Disinfection: The infected root canal is thoroughly cleaned.

Placement of a Material: A biocompatible material, such as Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA), is placed at the end of the root.

Sealing: Once the barrier has formed, the rest of the root canal is filled and sealed.

This procedure is crucial for young patients with immature teeth, as it provides a stable foundation for the tooth and allows it to be restored and remain in the mouth for years to come.

TREATMENT

Apexification

Encourages hard tissue formation at the root end, aiding immature teeth with open root tips to create a barrier for filling.

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How Apexification can help

The benefits of apexification are centered on saving the tooth and enabling it to function normally. They include:

Creating a Solid Seal: Apexification encourages the formation of a hard tissue barrier at the root's open end. This creates a strong, sealed base that is essential for a successful and long-lasting root canal filling. Without this seal, the tooth would be susceptible to reinfection.

Allowing for Future Restoration: With a properly sealed root end, the tooth can be restored with a filling or a crown. This allows the tooth to be fully functional, letting the patient chew and speak without discomfort.

Saving the Tooth: Ultimately, apexification is a crucial procedure for preventing the premature loss of an immature tooth. By saving the tooth, it helps preserve the patient's natural bite and smile, preventing the need for more complex and costly tooth replacement options later in life.