Present status and future directions: Apexification

Figure 1 Two types of open apex. A: Blunderbuss apex; B: Non-blunderbuss apex.

Figure 2 Wein’s classification. A: No root or bone resorption is evident, and the preparation is terminated at 1.0 mm from the apical foramen; B: Bone resorption is apparent but no root resorption, and the preparation is terminated at 1.5 mm from the apical foramen; C: Both root and bone resorption are apparent, and the preparation is terminated at 2.0 mm from the apical foramen.

Figure 3 Different types of materials for open apex management. A: Placement of calcium hydroxide dressing; B: Black arrow showing 5 mm mineral trioxide aggregate cement at the apex and orange arrow showing the obturation of the remaining canal.

Figure 4 Showing clinical images of the open apex and its management under the dental operating microscope. A: Open apex at 25X under magnification; B: Placement of mineral trioxide aggregate increment at 16X under magnification.