How far from the radiographic apex should obturation ideally end?

How far from the radiographic apex should obturation ideally end?

• A. 0.5 to 1.0 mm
• B. 1.5 to 2.0 mm
• C. 2.0 to 3.0 mm
• D. 3.0 to 4.0 mm

Answer: (A)

Obturation in endodontics ideally should end 0.5 to 1.0 mm from the radiographic apex. This distance creates a seal that helps prevent the re-entry of bacteria while still allowing for the necessary healing of the surrounding tissue. The slight gap allows for the natural physiological processes, such as cementum deposition, to occur without compromising the integrity of the obturation. If obturation ends too close to the apex, there is a risk of overfilling or extrusion of materials into the periapical tissue, which can lead to complications such as inflammation, resorption, or a periapical lesion. Conversely, if obturation is placed too far away from the apex, it may not adequately seal the canal and can lead to persistent infection or treatment failure. Thus, the range of 0.5 to 1.0 mm is optimal for effective treatment outcomes. Other distances presented, such as 1.5 to 2.0 mm or more, would not allow for the best seal needed at the apex and could lead to the aforementioned complications.

Obturation in endodontics ideally should end 0.5 to 1.0 mm from the radiographic apex. This distance creates a seal that helps prevent the re-entry of bacteria while still allowing for the necessary healing of the surrounding tissue. The slight gap allows for the natural physiological processes, such as cementum deposition, to occur without compromising the integrity of the obturation.

If obturation ends too close to the apex, there is a risk of overfilling or extrusion of materials into the periapical tissue, which can lead to complications such as inflammation, resorption, or a periapical lesion. Conversely, if obturation is placed too far away from the apex, it may not adequately seal the canal and can lead to persistent infection or treatment failure. Thus, the range of 0.5 to 1.0 mm is optimal for effective treatment outcomes.

Other distances presented, such as 1.5 to 2.0 mm or more, would not allow for the best seal needed at the apex and could lead to the aforementioned complications.