ABE Clinical Endodontics 3

Question 1

When using the 'balanced force' technique for root canal preparation, the sequence of motions is:

Accepted Answer

90° clockwise to engage, 120–180° counterclockwise with apical pressure, then clockwise to release

Answer

The balanced force technique uses a clockwise quarter-turn to engage dentin, followed by a counterclockwise rotation with apical pressure to cut and remove debris.

Question 2

Which of the following best describes the concept of 'apical patency' in endodontic treatment?

Accepted Answer

Keeping the foramen open and free of debris with a small file

Answer

Apical patency refers to maintaining an open, debris-free apical foramen by passively passing a small file (e.g., #10 K-file) through the constricture.

Question 3

EDTA is used in root canal preparation primarily to:

Accepted Answer

Remove the smear layer by chelating calcium ions

Answer

EDTA chelates calcium ions in mineralized dentin, effectively removing the inorganic component of the smear layer.

Question 4

A radiograph of a maxillary first molar shows a well-defined radiolucency associated with the MB root that does not respond to vitality testing. Probing depths are within normal limits. This most likely represents:

Accepted Answer

Periapical granuloma

Answer

A well-defined periapical radiolucency on a non-vital tooth with normal probing is classically a periapical granuloma, the most common periapical lesion.

Question 5

The master apical file (MAF) size is typically selected to achieve which goal?

Accepted Answer

Be at least three sizes larger than the first file that binds at working length

Answer

The MAF is typically selected to be at least three ISO sizes larger than the first file that binds at working length, ensuring adequate canal shaping.

(ABE) American Board of Endodontics Practice Test

(ABE) American Board of Endodontics Practice Test

ABE Clinical Endodontics 3