Revascularization Of The Open Apex

Revascularization is an endodontic procedure that restores blood vessels in and around your tooth roots. This treatment encourages growth and development to support healthy tissue. It’s a regenerative treatment that improves the function of your tooth roots and the nerves and blood vessels within them, reversing the damaging effects of necrosis or an open apex.

The two primary reasons you might need a revascularization treatment include immature permanent teeth with open apexes or dental necrosis.

Open apex
The apex of your tooth is the tip of its root, which is embedded in your jaw. Open apexes are common in underdeveloped teeth. For example, children who are just getting their permanent teeth have a higher risk of an open apex. The condition can also develop if the tips of your tooth roots have eroded and opened from a process called resorption.

Necrosis
Dental cavities and infections can worsen and lead to necrosis — the clinical term for tissue death. Pulp necrosis is a leading cause of delayed or stalled tooth root development and tooth loss. You can also develop pulp necrosis after a dental-trauma.

Whether you have open apex or necrotic revascularization, the treatment usually requires at least two appointments. Dr. Nance provides local anesthesia for all procedures to ensure you stay comfortable. During the first appointment, he uses special dental tools to access the inside of your tooth so he can remove debris, rinse the tooth, and inject antibiotics to get rid of any traces of infection.

At your second appointment, he reopens your tooth and treats the tooth root to increase blood flow. In some cases, he may use platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to boost blood vessel development and circulation.

The increased blood flow encourages and supports tooth develop, which eventually closes the apex of your tooth and reduces your risk of future decay, bone loss, and tooth loss.

Dr. Nance provides personalized aftercare instructions after your revascularization treatments and schedules a follow-up appointment to assess the success of your treatment. You might have some temporary swelling, but ice packs should reduce any discomfort. You should continue to brush and floss regularly and attend any follow-up appointments and routine dental check-ups and cleanings.

If you’re looking for expert endodontic or revascularization treatments, call Dr. Nance or make an appointment online today.