Regenerative Endodontics as the Future Treatment of Immature Permanent Teeth

Abstract

The regenerative endodontic procedure (REP) is an alternative solution for endodontic treatment of permanent teeth with incomplete root apex development. It results in angiogenesis, reinnervation, and further root formation. Indications for REP include immature permanent teeth with necrotic pulp and inflammatory lesions of the periapical tissues. The main contraindications comprise significant destruction of the tooth tissues and a lack of patient cooperation. We distinguish the following stages of this procedure: disinfection of the canal, delivery of the REP components, closure of the cavity, and follow-up appointments. For effective canal disinfection, the use of both rinsing agents and intracanal medicaments is suggested. Sodium hypochlorite and triple antibiotic paste are used most commonly. Light-activated disinfection is proposed as an alternative method. The prerequisite for the regeneration process of the pulp is the supply of its essential components: stem cells, growth factors, and scaffolds to the canal lumen. Blood clotting, platelet-rich plasma, and platelet-rich fibrin are used for this purpose. For a proper course of REP, it is also necessary to close the tooth canal tightly. For this purpose, mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), tricalcium silicate (Biodentine), or types of glass ionomer cement are employed. The patient should attend regularly scheduled follow-up appointments and each time undergo a thorough interview, physical and radiological examination. The most important indicator of a successful REP is the continued growth of the root in length and thickness and the closure of the root apex visible on X-rays. Many different proposals for a management protocol have been published; the following paper proposes the authors’ original scheme. Regenerative endodontics is the future of the endodontic treatment of immature permanent teeth; however, it still requires a lot of research to refine and standardize the treatment protocol. The application of tissue engineering methods seems to be promising, also for mature teeth treatment.