Abstract
It is always a challenge to conserve a non vital tooth with immature root due to open root apices. Apexification is a method which induces a calcific barrier at the apex of a nonvital tooth with open apices.1 Mineral trioxide aggregate [MTA] is an inert filling material and that is why it makes a perfect seal at the apex. Apexification treatment is supposed to create an environment that permits the deposition of cementum, periodontal ligament and even bone in a non vital pulp tooth. Frank has described four successful results of Apexification and that are continued closure of the canal and apex to a normal appearance, a dome shaped apical closure with the canal retaining a blunderbuss appearance, no apparent radiographic change but a positive stop in the apical area or a positive stop and radiographic evidence of a barrier coronal to the apex of the tooth. Keywords: Apexification, Open apices, Mineral Trioxide Aggregate, Blunderbuss canal
Highlights
The apex closure during the root development is last to occur and it takes a minimum of 3-4 years after the tooth eruption leading to ‘Open Apices’ [Fig. 1]
The endodontic treatment of a necrosed pulp with an open apex tooth has always been a challenge for dentists due to presence of thin fragile dentinal walls, reduced root lengths and a wide apex which do not allow the conventional filling techniques
Apexification with calcium hydroxide has been the treatment of choice in previous years
Summary
The apex closure during the root development is last to occur and it takes a minimum of 3-4 years after the tooth eruption leading to ‘Open Apices’ [Fig. 1]. Trauma and Caries are regarded as the frequent causes of pulpal necrosis and open apices in young immature permanent teeth as it stops further root development.[2] The endodontic treatment of a necrosed pulp with an open apex tooth has always been a challenge for dentists due to presence of thin fragile dentinal walls, reduced root lengths and a wide apex which do not allow the conventional filling techniques. Apexification with calcium hydroxide has been the treatment of choice in previous years As it has many limitations like long time span of the treatment, multiple appointments, increased clinical costs and long term usage of calcium hydroxide weakens the dentinal walls making it prone to fractures.[3] These shortcomings are taken care by the use of MTA [mineral trioxide aggregate] in place of calcium hydroxide. The purpose of this article is to emphasize the single appointment Apexification using mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA)
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