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Updated: May 28, 2026

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Systematic Assessment of Mammalian Skull Specimens for Dental and Temporomandibular Joint Pathology
Published on: August 22, 2022
Age-Dependent Root Apex Closure in Primary Second Molars
Kenan Cantekin1,2, Fahrettin Kalabalık1, Mihriban Güner1
1Faculty of Dentistry, Sakarya University, Sakarya 54050, Turkey.
Children (Basel, Switzerland)
|May 27, 2026
Summary
Root apex closure in primary second molars develops with age, typically completing by age 7. This study provides key data for pediatric dental treatment planning regarding root development in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Dental Radiology
- Tooth Development
Background:
- Primary teeth are vital for permanent dentition guidance.
- Limited data exists on root apex closure in primary molars.
- Understanding root development aids pediatric dental treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- Evaluate age-related root apex closure in primary second molars (2-7 years).
- Utilize panoramic radiographs for assessment.
- Provide clinical guidance for pediatric endodontic treatment planning.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional, descriptive, retrospective study.
- Evaluated 1628 panoramic radiographs of patients aged 2-7 years.
- Analyzed age, gender, and root apex closure status statistically.
Main Results:
- No apex closure in 2-2.99-year-olds.
- Limited closure in mandibular molars (3-3.99 years).
- Majority closure by 5-6.99 years in both jaws; gender differences were inconsistent.
Conclusions:
- Root apex closure in primary second molars shows a clear age-dependent pattern (2-7 years).
- Findings offer clinically relevant guidance for pediatric endodontic treatment.
- Contributes to the literature on primary tooth root development.
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