Management of open apex in a central incisor using mineral trioxide aggregate

Trauma to an immature tooth can result in pulpal devitalization and arrested apexogenesis, resulting in open apices; this is most common in anterior teeth of the permanent dentition. The attainment of an apical seal in such cases is challenging. The management of an open apex in a central incisor in a 16-year-old male patient is described in this report. The satisfactory result achieved suggests that mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) can be used successfully as a filling material in teeth with open apices.

Preservation of anterior teeth following trauma is essential, especially in young patients. A good option is the use of mineral trioxide aggregate in the treatment of open apices.