Dental Code D3351: Apexification/recalcification – initial visit (apical closure/calcific repair of perforations, root resorption, etc.)

Dental Code D3351 refers to a specific dental procedure known as apexification/recalcification, which is performed during the initial dental visit. This procedure involves the closure of the apex or tip of the tooth's root by inducing the formation of a calcified barrier. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as apical closure, calcific repair of perforations, and root resorption. 

On average, patients pay $410 for this D3351 service at the dentist's office, with as little as $250 charged for this in less expensive cities and as much as $530 in more expensive cities.

Low cost of living	Medium cost of living	High cost of living
Memphis (Tennessee), Cincinnati (Ohio)	Miami (Florida), Denver (Colorado), Austin (Texas)	(New York (New York), San Francisco (California)
$250	$410	$530

However, the price for the service D3351 depends not only on the region where you live, but also varies from dentist to dentist. Therefore, it makes sense to compare prices before choosing a dentist. The best way to do this price comparison is at Dr. BestPrice and save a lot of money. 

Before initiating the apexification/recalcification process, the dentist will conduct a thorough examination of the affected tooth. This typically involves a visual inspection, dental X-rays, and possibly other diagnostic tests. The purpose of this evaluation is to determine the extent of the damage, identify the underlying cause, and assess the feasibility of the apexification/recalcification procedure.

During the diagnosis, the dentist will examine the tooth for signs of apical closure, root resorption, or perforations. Apical closure refers to the incomplete development of the apex of the tooth's root, which can lead to potential problems. Root resorption occurs when the body's natural processes cause the gradual breakdown of the tooth's root structure. Perforations may result from trauma, decay, or previous dental procedures that have caused a hole or opening in the root.

To gain access to the root canal, the dentist will create a small opening in the affected tooth, usually using a dental drill. This access point allows for the removal of any infected or damaged tissue present within the root canal. The dentist will carefully remove the decayed or infected portions of the tooth, ensuring that the root canal is thoroughly cleaned and prepared for the apexification/recalcification procedure.

Once the access is established, the dentist will meticulously clean and shape the root canal using specialized instruments. This process involves removing any remaining pulp, debris, or bacteria to create a smooth and clear pathway for the subsequent steps. The shaping of the root canal also helps in facilitating the placement of the apexification/recalcification materials.

During the cleaning and shaping process, the dentist will use small files and irrigating solutions to remove any infected or necrotic tissue. The files are carefully maneuvered through the root canal to ensure that all the infected material is removed. The use of irrigating solutions helps in disinfecting the root canal and flushing out any debris.

In this step, the dentist will introduce a suitable apexification/recalcification material into the root canal. The material acts as a scaffold or support for the formation of a calcific barrier at the apex of the tooth's root. Commonly used materials include calcium hydroxide-based pastes, mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), or bioceramic materials. These materials stimulate the growth of hard tissue, promoting the closure of the apex and preventing further damage.

The apexification/recalcification materials are carefully placed into the root canal using specialized instruments. The dentist ensures that the material is compacted properly and reaches the apex of the root. The material remains in the root canal, providing a favorable environment for the growth of the calcific barrier.

After the apexification/recalcification materials have been placed, a temporary restoration is typically applied to seal the access point. This temporary restoration protects the tooth from contamination and provides stability during the healing process. The dentist may use temporary filling materials or a temporary crown, depending on the specific situation and tooth location.

The temporary restoration acts as a barrier, preventing bacteria and debris from entering the treated tooth. It also helps in maintaining the integrity and stability of the tooth while the calcific barrier forms. The temporary restoration is not meant to be a permanent solution and will be replaced with a permanent restoration in subsequent visits.

Following the initial apexification/recalcification procedure, regular follow-up visits are necessary to monitor the progress of the calcific barrier formation and evaluate the overall healing process. These visits allow the dentist to ensure that the tooth is stable and free from any complications. The dentist will take periodic X-rays to track the growth of the calcific barrier and assess the success of the procedure.

Once the apexification/recalcification is deemed successful, a permanent restoration, such as a dental crown, may be placed to restore the tooth's strength, function, and aesthetics. The permanent restoration helps to protect the tooth from further damage and allows for normal chewing and biting. The type of permanent restoration will depend on the specific needs of the tooth and the patient's preferences.

Dental Code D3351, apexification/recalcification – initial visit, involves the closure of the apex of a tooth's root by inducing the formation of a calcified barrier. This procedure is performed to address conditions such as apical closure, calcific repair of perforations, and root resorption. The steps involved in the apexification/recalcification process include diagnosis and evaluation, local anesthesia and isolation, access to the root canal, cleaning and shaping of the root canal, placement of apexification/recalcification materials, temporary restoration, and follow-up visits.

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