When your child has a dental injury or an infection in a young permanent tooth, it can be worrying — especially when the tooth hasn’t fully developed yet. But don’t worry — there’s a special treatment we use to save these teeth called apexification.
Let us explain it in a way that’s easy to understand.
What Is Apexification?
Apexification is a dental procedure used to save an immature permanent tooth (a tooth that hasn’t fully formed its roots yet), especially if the nerve inside the tooth has been damaged due to decay or trauma.
Normally, a tooth root continues to grow and develop for a few years after it comes in. But if the nerve dies early, the root stops growing. This leaves the tooth fragile and the root tip (called the apex) wide open.
In such cases, apexification helps by:
- Encouraging a hard tissue barrier to form at the root tip
- Allowing the tooth to stay in the mouth without spreading infection
- Giving the child a chance to keep their natural tooth rather than losing it early
When Is Apexification Needed?
Your child might need apexification if:
- They’ve had a fall or injury that damaged a front tooth
- There’s an infection or swelling near a newly erupted permanent tooth
- A large cavity has reached the nerve in a young tooth
- The tooth has stopped developing, and traditional root canal treatment isn’t possible
How Is It Done?
- Cleaning the Infection:
First, the infected tissues inside the tooth are gently cleaned and disinfected. - Placing a Special Material:
A biocompatible material like Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) or calcium hydroxide is placed inside the tooth. This material helps form a natural barrier at the root tip. - Sealing the Tooth:
Once the barrier has formed (which may take one or multiple visits), the tooth is sealed properly with a filling or crown to protect it.
Will It Hurt My Child?
Not at all. At KidznTeenz, we ensure your child is completely comfortable during the procedure. We use gentle techniques and child-friendly behavior management to make sure they feel safe and at ease.
Why Is It Important to Save the Tooth?
Losing a young permanent tooth can affect:
- Speech
- Chewing
- Facial growth
- Confidence
Apexification helps preserve your child’s natural smile and supports the healthy development of their mouth and jaw.
A Healthy Future Starts with Early Action
If your child has a tooth injury, swelling, or sensitivity in a newly erupted permanent tooth, don’t wait. Timely care can make all the difference.
At KidznTeenz, our pediatric dental specialists are trained to manage such delicate cases with expertise and compassion. We use modern materials and child-friendly care to save your child’s smile — one tooth at a time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, apexification is a vital procedure for preserving infected immature permanent teeth in children. By promoting the formation of a calcified barrier at the root tip, it allows the tooth to heal and function normally. With timely intervention and expert care, apexification can prevent tooth loss and support long-term oral health in growing children.
Got questions? We’re here to help.
Feel free to call us or book a consultation today!
