Alkaline Materials and Regenerative Endodontics: A Review

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Endodontics
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Periapical health is crucial for both mature and immature teeth.
• Immature teeth with arrested root development require specific treatment goals, including root elongation, apical maturation, and dentinal wall thickening.
• Pulp necrosis in immature teeth, often due to trauma or caries, halts root development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight Regenerative Endodontic Procedures (REPs) as a paradigm shift in treating immature teeth with pulp necrosis.
• To emphasize the potential of REPs for further root maturation and restoration of tooth vitality.
• To advocate for REPs as the primary treatment for immature teeth with pulp necrosis.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing alkaline biomaterials as essential components of successful REP protocols.
• Employing agents such as sodium hypochlorite, calcium hydroxide, mineral trioxide aggregates, and Biodentine.
• Implementing established REP protocols for immature teeth with necrotic pulps.

Main Results:

• REPs facilitate continued root maturation in immature teeth.
• REPs have the potential to restore vitality to immature teeth with pulp necrosis.
• REP protocols are effective in achieving treatment goals for immature teeth.

Conclusions:

• Regenerative Endodontic Procedures represent a significant advancement in endodontic treatment for immature teeth.
• REPs are the recommended treatment of choice for immature teeth with pulp necrosis and arrested root development.
• The use of specific alkaline biomaterials is fundamental to the success of REPs.