Revascularization in immature permanent teeth with necrotic pulp and apical pathology: Case series

Abstract

Introduction. To present and discuss the results of five clinical cases treated using the revascularization protocol, showing clinical and radiographic monitoring. Necrotic immature teeth with periapical pathology present a challenge to dentists because the techniques used in apexification leave the tooth susceptible to fracture, since the root does not continue to grow in length and the canal walls are thin. Revascularization has emerged as an alternative to resolve these deficiencies, enabling apical closure, continued development of the roots, and thickening of the dentinal walls. Case Series. Five clinically and radiographically diagnosed necrotic immature permanent teeth were treated using revascularization treatment. The therapeutic protocol involved accessing the pulp chamber; irrigating copiously with NaOCl; applying a triple antibiotic paste as intracanal dressing; then provisionally sealing it. After 3 weeks, the canal was cleaned and the apex irritated with a size 15 K-file to induce blood that would serve as a scaffold for pulp revascularization. MTA was used to seal the chamber before final obturation (composite or metallic crown). Conclusion. The discussion of the results leads to debate about different restorative materials and other published protocols.