Apexification: what it is and the stages of treatment
Root canal treatment for young permanent teeth with incomplete roots and affected pulp, to promote closure of the root.
What is apexification and what is the procedure?
Apexification is an endodontic procedure performed on young, immature permanent teeth whose roots are not yet fully formed. This treatment is carried out when the pulp tissue in the root of the tooth is affected by infection or inflammation, which prevents the tooth root from developing properly.
The objective of apexification is to promote the development and closure of the affected tooth root. During the procedure, the following is done:
1. Pulp exposure
An opening is created in the crown of the tooth to access the dental pulp in the root. The infected or inflamed pulp is removed.
2. Disinfection
A thorough cleaning and disinfection of the root canals is performed using irrigating solutions and antimicrobial medications. This helps eliminate bacteria and promote healing.
3. Root formation stimulation
Once the root canals are clean, a specific medication is placed at the end of the root to stimulate growth and closure of the root. This medication can be calcium hydroxide or another substance that promotes apexification.
4. Control and follow-up
After the initial apexification, follow-up visits are scheduled to evaluate the progress of root closure. These visits allow the dentist or endodontist to monitor development and adjust treatment as necessary.
Once the tooth root has completed its formation, the final obturation of the root canals is performed to seal them and prevent reinfection. Additionally, the tooth is restored to restore its shape and function.
It is important to note that apexification is a specialized treatment that should be performed by a dentist or endodontist with experience in this procedure. The viability and success of the treatment depend on several factors, including the patient's age, the degree of root development, and the overall health of the affected tooth. Therefore, it is essential to consult with a dental professional for an adequate evaluation and personalized treatment plan.
In baby teeth, the nerve treatment is different: a pulpotomy or a pulpectomy in children. Once the root has formed, treatment is completed with a conventional root canal treatment and the restoration of the tooth.
Apexification treatment process
Apexification treatment follows a specific protocol designed to maximize the chances of success in root development.
Treatment phases
Diagnosis and Planning
A complete evaluation is performed with digital radiographs and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) to accurately visualize the dental structure and degree of root development. This allows for effective treatment planning and prognosis determination.
Initial Treatment
The dental pulp is accessed, infected or necrotic tissue is removed, and thorough disinfection of the root canals is performed. The inducing medication (usually calcium hydroxide) is placed to stimulate apical barrier formation and root closure.
Follow-up and Evaluation
Regular visits are scheduled (every 3-6 months) to evaluate root development progress through radiographs. During these visits, the medication is renewed if necessary and the formation of the apical barrier is monitored until the root completes its development.
Treatment Completion
Once the root has completed its formation and the apex has closed, the definitive endodontic treatment with permanent obturation of the root canals is performed. Finally, the tooth is restored with a crown or appropriate restoration to protect it and restore its function.
The success of apexification depends on accurate diagnosis, adequate treatment, and constant follow-up. At ENIQ, we have the technology and experience necessary to perform this specialized procedure with the best results.
What are the benefits of having apexification at ENIQ?
The use of advanced technology in apexification significantly improves treatment outcomes and patient experience.
Precise diagnosis
Technology, such as digital radiographs and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), allows for more precise and detailed visualization of the dental structure and roots in immature teeth. This helps the professional make an accurate diagnosis of the condition and root development, which is crucial for planning and performing apexification effectively.
Surgical guidance
Surgical guidance technology, such as computer-assisted surgery, can be used in apexification to improve the precision and safety of the procedure. Surgical guidance allows the professional to plan and visualize the exact location of the apexification, which facilitates precise placement of instruments and reduces associated risks.
Advanced instrumentation
Modern technology has improved the instruments used in apexification. Endodontic systems with advanced technology, such as rotary files and electronic apex locators, allow for more precise and efficient instrumentation of root canals. This can reduce treatment time and improve outcomes.
Effective disinfection and obturation
Technology in endodontics has improved the medications and obturation materials used in apexification. Modern irrigants and antimicrobial medications can effectively disinfect root canals and control infections, promoting faster healing and better long-term outcomes.
Follow-up and evaluation
Technology allows for more precise follow-up and evaluation of apexification progress. The use of digital images and other monitoring devices can help the professional evaluate root development and make adjustments to treatment as necessary.
It is important to note that the use of technology in apexification is a complementary tool to the experience and skills of the dental professional. Make sure to seek a qualified and updated dentist or endodontist in the use of technology to obtain the best results in your specific case.
How much does apexification cost?
Apexification
Innovative Endodontic Treatment
Specialized treatment to complete root development in young permanent teeth. Includes all necessary sessions until root formation is complete.
Complete diagnostic evaluation with digital radiographs
Between 3 and 6 treatment sessions depending on the case
Specialized medications (calcium hydroxide)
Follow-up and monitoring of root development
Advanced endodontic technology
Frequently asked questions about apexification
Get answers about apexification in Madrid. customer service.
It is an endodontic treatment for young permanent teeth whose root has not finished forming and whose pulp is affected by infection or inflammation. After the canals are cleaned and disinfected, a medication, usually calcium hydroxide, is placed at the end of the root to stimulate its closure. Once the root has completed its formation, the definitive root canal treatment is carried out and the tooth is restored.
1) Diagnosis with digital radiographs and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) to see how far the root has developed. 2) Initial treatment: the infected tissue is removed, the canals are disinfected and the inducing medication is placed. 3) Check-ups every 3-6 months with radiographs, renewing the medication if needed. 4) Once the root has closed, definitive root canal treatment and restoration of the tooth with a crown or another suitable restoration.
Each session costs between €40 and €60, and three to six sessions are usually needed. Once the root has formed, the root canal treatment and the restoration of the tooth must be added. The final price is confirmed after the assessment.
Although the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, technically apexogenesis refers to the procedure when vital pulp is still present and the goal is to keep it alive so that root development continues. Apexification, strictly speaking, refers to the procedure when the pulp is necrotic and an apical barrier must be induced. Both seek to complete tooth root development.
Apexification treatment usually requires between 3 and 6 sessions, depending on the specific case and the tooth's response to treatment. Each session is scheduled at time intervals to allow the root to develop properly. Once root formation is complete, the definitive root canal treatment and tooth restoration are performed.
As with any dental procedure, there are some risks involved, although they are minor. These may include infection, pain or discomfort after treatment, and in rare cases, procedure failure if the root does not close properly. However, with proper care and regular follow-up, these risks are significantly minimized.
Apexification is mainly performed in children and adolescents with young permanent teeth whose roots have not yet completed their development. Typically, this occurs between 7 and 14 years of age, depending on the specific tooth and its stage of development. It is a specialized treatment for immature teeth that have suffered trauma or infection.