Perforation repair and one-step apexification procedures.

As with any dental treatment, procedural mishaps can occur during root canal therapy. One such occurrence is the perforation of a root or pulpal floor. After a perforation occurs, the goals are to "sterilize" (decontaminate) the site and then seal the perforation. The material most widely used in endodontics to seal perforations is mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA). MTA us extremely biocompatible, and it has been shown historically that osteoidlike material grows right into MTA. The technique of one-step apexification offers an alternative to draw-out cases with several medicament-changing appointments that often result in a failed attempt at root-end closure. With the favorable histologic response of MTA, this material is the best current choice for this procedure. Completion of these cases in an effective and efficient way allows for permanent restorations to be done in a more timely manner, prolonging the longevity of these teeth.