[Revascularization? Only as the last resort!]

Revascularization has been suggested for treatment of necrotic immature permanent teeth. The desirable outcome of the treatment is continuous growth of the root, maturation of the dentin walls underneath the cervical seal and apical closure. Despite of increasing numbers of case reports, a uniform treatment protocol has not been set. This procedure has many shortcomings of which tooth discoloration is the most prevalent and easy to observe. The severe discoloration is attributed to the use of Mincocycline in the antibiotic dressing, or to the use of MTA for the seal. The maturation of the root is not predictable and does not always occur. The outcome should be evaluated radiographically and clinically. Sensibility testing may not be possible due to the large MTA plug in the root canal. It is recommended only when alternative procedures such as apexificaiton, pulpotomy or pulp capping are impossible. The patient and his parents should be aware of the potential discoloration and must be committed to routine follow ups. Currently, this procedure should be limited to incisor or premolar teeth in which the crown is longer than the root, or the canal's width is larger than that of the dentinal wall.