Apexogenesis
Pronunciation: ay-pek-SOJ-en-ee-sis
A vital pulp therapy procedure that preserves pulp vitality in an immature tooth to allow physiological completion of root development.
Full Definition
Apexogenesis is a treatment strategy applied to immature permanent teeth with vital, partially inflamed pulps, in which the vital pulp tissue is preserved—through pulp capping or pulpotomy—to allow continued dentinogenesis and physiological root apex closure (apical maturation). It contrasts with apexification in that a live pulp is an absolute prerequisite; once the pulp is necrotic, apexification or the apical plug technique must be considered instead. In editorial documents, the term is sometimes incorrectly applied to cases with irreversible pulpitis or necrosis, where it is clinically inappropriate. The suffix '-genesis' (formation/creation) vs. '-fication' (making/induction) provides a useful mnemonic for editors.
Usage
Usage note: Requires pulp vitality—never use in a case description where pulp necrosis is confirmed. The '-genesis' suffix signals biological formation, aiding editorial memory.
In Context
- "Given the positive response to pulp vitality tests, apexogenesis was selected over apexification as the treatment of choice." — Paediatric endodontic case discussion
- "Table 1 incorrectly lists apexogenesis for two cases with confirmed pulp necrosis; these diagnoses require amendment." — Editorial review checklist