Which material is primarily used for obturation in root canal therapy?

Which material is primarily used for obturation in root canal therapy?

• A. Gutta-percha points
• B. Lubricating gel
• C. Paper points
• D. Cresophene

Answer: (A)

Obturation in root canal therapy aims to seal and fill the cleaned canal space to prevent reinfection and microleakage. Gutta-percha points are used for this purpose because they are biocompatible and thermoplastic, allowing them to be softened and packed with a sealer to adapt to the canal walls and irregularities. This combination provides a dense, stable fill that can be radiographically verified. Paper points, lubricating gel, and Cresophene have other roles (drying the canal, reducing friction during instrumentation, and antiseptic use, respectively) and do not serve as the main filling material.

Obturation in root canal therapy aims to seal and fill the cleaned canal space to prevent reinfection and microleakage. Gutta-percha points are used for this purpose because they are biocompatible and thermoplastic, allowing them to be softened and packed with a sealer to adapt to the canal walls and irregularities. This combination provides a dense, stable fill that can be radiographically verified. Paper points, lubricating gel, and Cresophene have other roles (drying the canal, reducing friction during instrumentation, and antiseptic use, respectively) and do not serve as the main filling material.