Contemporary Endodontics for Children and Adolescents: A Comprehensive Review

Contemporary endodontic procedures for children and adolescents have evolved over the years to become more advanced and less invasive. This comprehensive review will discuss the latest techniques and technologies used in endodontics for pediatric patients.

Introduction Endodontic treatment is a common procedure in dentistry that involves the removal of infected pulp from a tooth’s root canal. The aim of this treatment is to prevent or treat dental abscesses and save teeth from extraction. While endodontic procedures were initially performed on adults, they are now also commonly performed on children and adolescents. The goal of endodontic treatment in children and adolescents is to preserve primary teeth until they naturally exfoliate and to ensure that permanent teeth develop without complications.

Advancements in Contemporary Endodontics for Children and Adolescents Advancements in contemporary endodontics for children and adolescents have improved the quality of care provided to young patients. One of the most significant advancements is the use of digital radiography, which provides a more accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. Additionally, the use of dental operating microscopes has improved the ability of endodontists to see and treat hard-to-reach areas of the root canal system. Laser therapy has also been introduced to endodontic treatment, which allows for less invasive procedures and reduced pain and discomfort for the patient.

Common Endodontic Procedures for Children and Adolescents Pulpotomy: A pulpotomy is a procedure that involves removing the infected portion of the pulp from the crown of the tooth, leaving the healthy pulp intact in the root canal. This procedure is typically performed on primary molars and is aimed at preserving the tooth until it naturally exfoliates.

Pulpectomy: A pulpectomy is a procedure that involves the complete removal of the infected pulp from the root canal of the tooth. This procedure is typically performed on permanent teeth that have not yet fully developed.

Apexogenesis: Apexogenesis is a procedure that is performed on immature permanent teeth that have suffered pulp injury. This procedure is aimed at preserving the tooth’s vitality by promoting continued root development.

Apexification: Apexification is a procedure that is performed on immature permanent teeth that have stopped developing due to pulp injury. This procedure involves inducing the formation of a calcified barrier at the apex of the root canal to allow for the tooth’s continued growth.

Root Resorption: Root resorption is a pathological process that can occur in both primary and permanent teeth. In primary teeth, root resorption can be a natural process during the exfoliation process. In permanent teeth, root resorption can occur due to trauma or infection. Treatment for root resorption can vary depending on the severity of the case.

Conclusion Contemporary endodontics for children and adolescents has made significant advancements in recent years. The use of digital radiography, dental operating microscopes, and laser therapy has improved the quality of care provided to young patients. Endodontic procedures such as pulpotomies, pulpectomies, apexogenesis, apexification, and root resorption treatment have also evolved to become less invasive and more effective. By preserving primary teeth and ensuring that permanent teeth develop without complications, endodontic treatment can greatly improve the oral health of children and adolescents.

Keywords: Contemporary endodontics, children, adolescents, digital radiography, dental operating microscopes, laser therapy, pulpotomy, pulpectomy, apexogenesis, apexification, root resorption.

Reference: Fuks, A. B., Moskovitz, M., & Tickotsky, N. (Eds.). (2019). Contemporary endodontics for children and adolescents. Springer.

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