HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

In endodontics, what is glycerin used for?

1. To clean dental tools

2. To lubricate root canal instruments

3. To fill cavities

4. To disinfect instruments

The correct answer is: To lubricate root canal instruments

Glycerin is utilized in endodontics primarily as a lubricant for root canal instruments. Its application helps reduce friction during the instrumentation process, allowing for smoother and more effective manipulation of files and other tools within the root canal system. This lubrication is essential as it not only extends the life of the instruments by minimizing wear but also enhances the overall efficiency of the cleaning and shaping procedures that are critical in endodontic treatment. While cleaning dental tools, filling cavities, and disinfecting instruments are important aspects of dental practice, they do not specifically pertain to the role of glycerin in the context of endodontics. Glycerin's unique properties make it particularly suited to the lubrication of instruments, aiding in the delicate and often intricate work required within the confines of the tooth's root canals.