When a young permanent tooth is damaged due to trauma or decay before its root has fully developed, it’s called an immature tooth. These teeth have open root tips and thin, fragile walls, making them vulnerable to fracture and infection. At The Endodontic Office, we offer specialised treatments to preserve and strengthen these teeth while allowing natural root development to continue.

Why Is Treatment Necessary?

An immature tooth with pulp damage cannot complete root formation on its own. If left untreated, this can lead to:

• Continued infection or abscess formation
• Arrested root development
• Weak tooth structure is prone to fracture
• Loss of a tooth at an early age

Our endodontic specialists aim to intervene early and use modern regenerative or apexification techniques to support healthy root maturation and tooth longevity.

Treatment Options for Immature Teeth

• Pulp Capping (Direct or Indirect): Used when the pulp is still healthy or only mildly inflamed. A protective material is placed over the exposed pulp to encourage continued root growth and healing.
• Apexogenesis: This is performed when the tooth's pulp is still vital. A biocompatible material like MTA (mineral trioxide aggregate) is placed over the pulp to stimulate further root development and the closure of the apex.
• Apexification: Used when the pulp is non-vital or necrotic. This procedure helps close the open apex of the root by encouraging hard tissue formation using materials like calcium hydroxide or MTA, creating a barrier for root canal filling.
• Regenerative Endodontics: A modern and advanced approach that uses the body’s natural healing abilities, growth factors, and stem cells to regenerate pulp-like tissue and allow the root to continue developing.

The Procedure: What to Expect

All procedures are performed under local anaesthesia and high magnification to ensure precision and comfort.

1. Diagnosis and Imaging – A comprehensive clinical exam and digital X-rays help us evaluate the condition of the tooth and root.
2. Disinfection – The canals are gently cleaned using irrigants to remove bacteria and debris.
3. Placement of Medicament – A material is placed inside the canal to stimulate healing or root-end closure.
4. Sealing and Restoration – Once healing has begun or the apex is closed, the canal is sealed and the tooth is restored for function and protection.

Depending on the selected treatment, you may require follow-up visits to monitor development.

Why Choose The Endodontic Office?

• Expertise in Paediatric and Young Adult Cases
• Advanced Microsurgical Equipment
• Regenerative and Biocompatible Materials
• Compassionate, Child-Friendly Environment

Preserving a young permanent tooth today can prevent years of dental issues tomorrow. Our goal is always to save the natural tooth and promote healthy development whenever possible.

Aftercare Instructions

Immediate Post-Treatment Care

• Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until your dentist restores it with a permanent filling or crown.
• Take prescribed antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medication as directed.
• Expect mild tenderness or sensitivity for a few days.

Long-Term Monitoring

• Follow up with scheduled appointments to monitor root development and ensure the tooth remains infection-free.
• Maintain excellent oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings.
• Report any discomfort, swelling, or signs of reinfection immediately.

FAQs

Q: Can an immature tooth be saved even if it’s infected?
A: Yes. With regenerative endodontics or apexification, even teeth with necrotic pulp can be treated and preserved. Early diagnosis and treatment significantly improve outcomes.

Q: Is treatment painful?
A: No. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, and most patients report only mild discomfort afterwards. Our team ensures a gentle, stress-free experience.

Q: How long does it take for the root to develop after treatment?
A: Root development can take several months. During this time, we monitor healing with periodic X-rays and adjust the treatment plan if necessary.

Q: What happens if the tooth can’t be saved?
A: If the tooth cannot be preserved despite our best efforts, we’ll work with your dentist to explore safe replacement options, such as space maintainers or implants in the future.

Book a Consultation

Concerned about a young tooth injury or infection? Don’t wait. Contact The Endodontic Office today to schedule an evaluation. Early intervention gives your child the best chance at saving their natural tooth and avoiding complex treatment later in life.