What Is Apexogenesis?
Apexogenesis is a vital pulp therapy procedure used to treat immature permanent teeth with exposed or injured pulp. Unlike apexification, which is performed on non-vital teeth, apexogenesis is aimed at preserving the health of the tooth’s living tissue—allowing for continued root development and natural closure of the apex. This procedure encourages healing of the dental pulp and maintains its vitality, promoting the natural formation of dentin and strengthening the overall structure of the tooth. It is especially effective in children and teens with developing teeth affected by trauma or decay.
Benefits of Apexogenesis
Preserving the vitality of a young tooth’s pulp can significantly improve long-term outcomes and reduce the need for more complex procedures later.
Key benefits include:
- Stimulates natural root growth and apex closure
- Preserves pulp vitality and immune response
- Minimally invasive with faster healing
- Avoids or delays the need for root canal therapy
- Enhances long-term strength of the tooth
Who Is a Good Candidate for Apexogenesis?
Apexogenesis is ideal for younger patients with immature permanent teeth and partially exposed pulp that remains healthy or mildly inflamed.
You may be a candidate if you have:
- A recently injured or decayed tooth with exposed pulp
- A developing permanent tooth with an open apex
- A vital tooth that still responds to pulp testing
- No signs of severe infection or necrosis
- Been referred by your dentist for pulp therapy
Why Choose 3D MicroEndo for Apexogenesis in Manhattan?
Our expert team at 3D MicroEndo, led by Dr. Jason Deblinger, is highly skilled in pulp therapy and endodontic microsurgery. We specialize in conservative treatments that preserve tooth vitality using advanced diagnostic tools and biocompatible materials. With three convenient Manhattan locations in the Upper East Side, Gramercy Park, and Tribeca, we provide precise, patient-centered care tailored to developing teeth.
What to Expect During Your Visit
We prioritize patient comfort and clarity throughout the apexogenesis process. Here’s a step-by-step look at what your visit will involve:
Step 1: Diagnostic Imaging and Pulp Testing
We start with a thorough examination, including CBCT or digital X-rays, and pulp vitality testing to assess whether the tooth is a candidate for apexogenesis.
Step 2: Gentle Pulp Therapy
Under local anesthesia, the damaged portion of the pulp is carefully removed, while the healthy portion is preserved. A biocompatible material (such as calcium hydroxide or MTA) is placed to encourage healing.
Step 3: Sealing and Monitoring
The tooth is sealed with a temporary or permanent restoration, and follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor root development and pulp health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Apexogenesis treats vital teeth and preserves live pulp, while apexification is for non-vital teeth with open apices.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and is generally painless. Mild post-treatment sensitivity is normal.
Root development varies but may continue over several months. Regular follow-ups are important to track progress.
Yes. By preserving the healthy pulp tissue, apexogenesis can delay or eliminate the need for root canal therapy in many cases.
Common materials include Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) or calcium hydroxide, both of which are biocompatible and promote tissue regeneration.