HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What is apexogenesis?

1. Treatment of a non-vital tooth to stimulate closure

2. Treatment of a vital pulp to allow continued natural development

3. Placement of medicament directly on the exposed pulp

4. Removal of pulpal tissue from the tooth

The correct answer is: Treatment of a vital pulp to allow continued natural development

Apexogenesis refers to the process of treating a vital pulp in a developing tooth to facilitate continued natural root development and closure of the apex. This procedure is critical in young patients whose teeth have not fully matured, as it encourages proper formation and thickening of the root canal walls, which can ultimately lead to a healthy tooth structure. By maintaining the vitality of the pulp, apexogenesis supports the natural developmental processes, allowing for the root to fully form and ensuring the tooth can function effectively. In contrast, the other choices relate to different dental procedures that do not focus on preserving the vitality of the pulp or facilitating natural growth. For instance, the treatment for a non-vital tooth would usually involve different interventions aimed at addressing issues related to death of the pulp rather than promoting its continued development. Placing medicament on the exposed pulp, while related, does not encompass the broader goal of apexogenesis. Similarly, removing pulpal tissue entails a different procedure altogether, aimed at cleaning or treating a diseased pulp rather than supporting further growth.