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Endodontics · single question

A tooth root-canal-treated 3 years ago shows a sinus tract traced with gutta-percha to an apical radiolucency; the patient has NO pain. Diagnosis?

  1. Previously RCT-treated tooth with CHRONIC apical abscess
  2. RCT-treated with ACUTE abscess
  3. Untreated tooth, chronic abscess
  4. Untreated tooth, acute abscess
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. Previously RCT-treated tooth with CHRONIC apical abscess

  • A. Correct. A draining sinus tract (gutta-percha tracing) + apical radiolucency + NO pain in a root-treated tooth = a chronic apical abscess (failed prior endo).
  • B. Incorrect. ACUTE abscess is painful with swelling; this patient is asymptomatic.
  • C. Incorrect. The tooth WAS treated (it had RCT 3 years ago).
  • D. Incorrect. It is neither untreated nor acute.

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