ABSTRACT
This chapter will cover endodontic care of permanent teeth in children, trauma (which is more common in children) and management of tooth malformations.
The most significant characteristic of permanent teeth in children is their immaturity. Development is not complete until several years after eruption, and although teeth are generally fully formed approximately 6 years after eruption, the process of maturation continues throughout life, as secondary dentine is laid down by odontoblasts. Young teeth have large pulp chambers, wide root canals and thin-walled roots. They also have wide dentinal tubules. Once pulpal vitality is lost, all maturation ceases. This leaves an immature tooth with a short root, thin fragile walls and a large pulp space that is readily contaminated by bacteria, which can enter through exposed dentinal tubules. Immature, pulpless incisors are very prone to cervical fracture and are often unsuitable for restoration with posts.
