HIGHClinicalTier 1
Histologic Study of a Human Immature Permanent Premolar with Chronic Apical Periodontitis after Regenerative Endodontic Procedures
SourceJournal of EndodonticsTier 1Peer-Reviewed Research
Originally at sciencedirect.com
Summary & scoring by The Bell Brief (Dr. Jennifer Bell) using the Drill-Down Protocol (Drill-Down Score) — not the original publisher.
Why it matters for dental
This histologic case report provides the first direct microscopic evidence that regenerative endodontic procedures can achieve continued root development and periapical healing in a human immature premolar with chronic apical periodontitis, giving endodontists and pediatric dentists concrete biologic proof that the technique works in a real patient rather than only in animal models.
Key points
- The study documents a human immature permanent premolar treated with regenerative endodontics that showed continued root lengthening, dentin-wall thickening, and resolution of chronic apical periodontitis on histologic examination.
- Publication in JOE Volume 52, Issue 8 (August 2026) means the data will likely influence endodontic and pediatric residency curricula and guideline updates within 12–18 months.
- Results directly address the clinical uncertainty over whether histologic regeneration versus mere repair occurs in human teeth with longstanding infection, supporting informed consent discussions with parents and referring general dentists.
- Specialists performing regenerative procedures on teeth with open apices and chronic infection now have peer-reviewed human histology to justify the added chair time and material costs versus conventional apexification.
Who should care
SpecialistAssociate
Read the original on Journal of Endodontics
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