AGD Endodontics and Pulpal Therapy 4 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which rotary NiTi file system uses a reciprocating single-file motion to reduce file separation risk?
- ProTaper Universal
- WaveOne Gold (Correct answer)
- K3XF
- Vortex Blue
Correct answer: WaveOne Gold
WaveOne Gold uses reciprocating motion (clockwise-counterclockwise) which reduces cyclic fatigue and file separation compared to continuous rotation.
Question 2: What is the primary advantage of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) over periapical radiographs in endodontics?
- Lower radiation dose
- Three-dimensional visualization of root anatomy and periapical pathology (Correct answer)
- Better soft tissue imaging
- Real-time imaging capability
Correct answer: Three-dimensional visualization of root anatomy and periapical pathology
CBCT provides 3D images revealing complex root morphology, missed canals, and the true extent of periapical lesions invisible on 2D films.
Question 3: Calcific metamorphosis (pulp canal obliteration) following dental trauma is best managed by:
- Immediate root canal treatment to prevent future complications
- Elective root canal treatment only if symptoms or periapical pathology develop (Correct answer)
- Extraction because retreatment is impossible
- Bleaching to restore tooth color
Correct answer: Elective root canal treatment only if symptoms or periapical pathology develop
Most teeth with calcific metamorphosis remain vital and asymptomatic; root canal treatment is indicated only when clinical or radiographic signs of pathology appear.
Question 4: Which type of resorption is characterized by pink discoloration of the crown and widening of the coronal pulp space?
- External cervical resorption
- External inflammatory resorption
- Internal resorption (Correct answer)
- Replacement resorption
Correct answer: Internal resorption
Internal resorption causes the pulp tissue to resorb dentin from within, making granulation tissue visible through the crown as a pink spot.
Question 5: A tooth with a necrotic pulp and chronic apical abscess has a sinus tract but NO pain. What AAE classification applies?
- Symptomatic apical periodontitis
- Asymptomatic apical abscess (Correct answer)
- Acute apical abscess
- Condensing osteitis
Correct answer: Asymptomatic apical abscess
Asymptomatic apical abscess presents as a sinus tract without pain, indicating chronic drainage of a low-grade infection.
Question 6: Which technique is used to negotiate a severely calcified or curved canal by using a pre-curved file with a 'watch-winding' motion?
- Step-back technique
- Crown-down pressureless technique
- Balanced force technique (Correct answer)
- Patency filing
Correct answer: Balanced force technique
The balanced force technique uses clockwise and counterclockwise rotation under apical pressure to negotiate curved or calcified canals safely.
Question 7: Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) is the material of choice for apexification of an open apex because:
- It sets quickly in the presence of moisture and provides an immediate hermetic seal (Correct answer)
- It is the least expensive material available
- It requires dry conditions to set properly
- It stimulates further root development
Correct answer: It sets quickly in the presence of moisture and provides an immediate hermetic seal
MTA sets in the presence of moisture and creates a biocompatible apical barrier, making it ideal for sealing open, blunderbuss apices.
AGD Endodontics and Pulpal Therapy 4
Which rotary NiTi file system uses a reciprocating single-file motion to reduce file separation risk?