Pulse Oximetry and Three-Dimensional Analysis in Evaluating Immature Permanent Teeth Apexogenesis: Two Case Reports

Abstract

Background: Apexogenesis is a vital pulp therapy that aims to preserve pulp vitality and maintain root formation in not-fully-formed permanent teeth with exposed pulp from trauma or caries. To achieve success, reliable diagnostic tools are required to assess the pulp health and tooth development stage, design an appropriate treatment plan and evaluation, and follow-up. Pulse oximetry is a non-invasive method for monitoring pulp oxygen saturation, which corresponds to pulp vitality. Case Presentation: This case report describes the successful apexogenesis of two pulp exposure-immature permanent teeth treated with acemannan, an implantable natural biomaterial extracted from aloe vera. Based on pulp oxygen saturation level, clinical evaluation, and radiographic examination, the teeth were asymptomatic with preserved pulp vitality and continued root development. Conclusion: Therefore, as an auxiliary tool, pulse oximetry could be useful for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-ups of apexogenesis therapy.