HOSA Dental Terminology Practice 2026 – All-in-One Study Guide for Exam Success!

Apexification is a dental procedure typically performed on nonvital teeth, specifically to help encourage the formation of a barrier at the root apex in cases where the root development is incomplete and there is an open apex. This condition is commonly observed in young patients or in cases of trauma when the tooth's apex has not fully matured.

In the scenario presented, a nonvital tooth with an open apex is the ideal situation for apexification because the goal is to create a closure or barrier that will allow for successful root canal therapy and help retain the tooth. The procedure involves using materials to stimulate hard tissue formation, which helps establish a suitable foundation for future restorative work and to avoid potential complications associated with an open root.

In contrast, vital teeth with high decay would not require apexification since the pulp is still healthy, and treatment would focus on restoration rather than apex closure. Severely eroded enamel may present a need for different types of restorative interventions but does not relate to apexification. Lastly, a molar with complete root development indicates that the tooth has achieved its full resilience and does not require the apexification process.