Endodontics and Pulpal Therapy Flashcards

Which irrigant is most effective at dissolving necrotic pulp tissue during root canal treatment?

Answer: Sodium hypochlorite 5.25%

Sodium hypochlorite is the gold standard irrigant due to its ability to dissolve organic tissue and antimicrobial properties.

What is the primary purpose of EDTA in root canal irrigation?

Answer: Remove the smear layer by chelating calcium

EDTA chelates calcium ions in dentin, effectively removing the inorganic smear layer created during instrumentation.

A patient presents with spontaneous, lingering pain that worsens with heat but is relieved by cold. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Answer: Irreversible pulpitis

Pain that lingers after stimulus removal and relief with cold indicates irreversible pulpitis with hyperemia.

Which obturation technique uses thermoplasticized gutta-percha injected into the canal?

Answer: Thermafil

Thermafil uses a plastic carrier coated with alpha-phase gutta-percha that is heated and inserted into the canal.

The electronic apex locator measures which property to determine the apical constriction?

Answer: Impedance using multiple frequencies

Modern apex locators use multi-frequency impedance measurement to accurately locate the apical constriction.

Which condition is a contraindication to vital pulp therapy in a permanent tooth?

Answer: Spontaneous pain prior to treatment

Spontaneous pain indicates irreversible pulpitis or pulp necrosis, making vital pulp therapy inappropriate.

What is the minimum recommended apical preparation size to ensure adequate disinfection in most canals?

Answer: ISO size 35

Research supports apical preparation to at least ISO size 35 to allow effective irrigant penetration and debridement.