Apexification to Correct Undeveloped Tooth Roots
Apexification is a dental procedure used by dentists around the world to treat a special root canal problem.
Most teeth have root canals that taper from the crown to the root end. These root canal problems can be easily treated using conventional methods. But when some immature teeth with pulp necrosis and bacterial infection have canals that do not close at the root end, your dentist will recommend apexification.
How Apexification Helps with Root Canal Problems?
The major advantage of using this modern procedure is that the root will continue to develop, allowing for the pulp to recover and heal. Your dentist will cover the exposed pulp tissue with medicine that will speed up healing. It also encourages the growth of healthy tooth and helps close down the open end of the root (apex).
As a result of this procedure, root canal thickens and the affected teeth will become stronger as the child grows.
Your dentist may choose to use a true pulp capping in case the root development is incomplete. A dental surgeon will prepare your dentin overlying the exposed area and add medication (MTA mixture). The MTA is sealed to ensure it remains safe from infection. Your dentist will set your appointments at appropriate intervals to monitor the root development.
The Procedure of Apexification – What to Expect?
The procedure of apexification involves few simple steps.
A dental specialist will remove the root pulp and clean the root canal before shaping it for the procedure.
A special medicated solution is applied to your root canal and sealed with filling material. This filling is temporary so it will come off when the pulp has recovered.
The medication must be replenished periodically until a hard barrier is formed at the end of the root. The intervals at which to replace the medication vary between 2 and 4 months.
Your doctor will determine the number of visits and intervals between them depending on your condition. Although overall treatment steps will remain the same, your dentist may lengthen the treatment in case you have severe root canal issues.
When the treatment is complete, the sealant will be removed on your final tooth restoration dental visit.
What if Apexification Fails?
Sometimes, apexification fails due to different reasons. For some patients, the resorption continues while for the other the barrier doesn’t form.
In such cases, your dentist may suggest a surgical procedure. The affected teeth may have to be removed in some cases.
Apexification has a few steps but some dentists have been using a one-step approach. This approach makes use of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) that replaces the traditional material used in this process.
When you visit 7 Day Dental, our experts help you explore different options after diagnosis your problem. Feel free to ask about the outcome, cost, and length of different procedures to feel confident when you schedule your appointment for root canal treatment.
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