Apicoforming is an endodontic treatment that is performed in those cases in which the development and growth of the tooth has stopped, usually due to trauma at ages between 6 and 18 years.
Inside the root there is an organic tissue that is responsible for forming the dentin, which is the structure of the root. In the event that this tissue is altered or dies, its growth will be slowed down.
Depending on the age of the patient and the specific tooth, the best possible technique should be sought to maintain it and prevent its loss.
In which cases is apicoforming applied and why?
Whenever it is found that there is a lesion of the pulp (nerve) due to caries or trauma, it is necessary to assess whether it is still alive or whether tissue necrosis has occurred.
If it is still alive, the appropriate techniques should be used to keep it vital since in this way the root growth will continue. If the vitality has already been lost and the pulp has necrosed, the possibility of applying pulp regeneration techniques should be assessed, although they are not possible in all cases, although this treatment is becoming more and more widespread. Otherwise, apicoforming with biomaterials will be performed.
What does apicoforming consist of?
The most conventional treatment is based on completely cleaning the contents of the pulp canal in one or more sessions, and then creating a plug in the tip of the root that is not yet fully formed with biomaterials that do not stain the root or the crown of the tooth.
The objective is to create a hermetic seal so that there can be no bacterial contamination.
The problem with conventional apicoforming is the remaining weakness of the root, since this technique does not make it grow, unlike pulp regeneration which, if successful, is able to create a more physiological root.
For more information, please consult a dental specialist.