Endodontics · single question
A tooth with an INCOMPLETE root canal filling (canals not obturated to length, done ~6 months ago) now has pain. The most appropriate management is:
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Correct answer: A. Nonsurgical endodontic retreatment
- A. Correct. A symptomatic tooth with inadequate (short/incomplete) obturation has persistent infection; nonsurgical retreatment to properly clean, shape, and obturate the canals is indicated.
- B. Observation alone leaves the symptomatic infected canal untreated.
- C. Extraction is premature when the tooth is restorable and retreatable.
- D. Antibiotics do not resolve an under-filled, infected canal — definitive treatment is needed.
Note: Although some teach waiting ~1 year to judge healing of an asymptomatic case, ongoing PAIN with inadequate obturation warrants retreatment rather than waiting.