HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What is the primary material used in root canal procedures?

1. Amalgam

2. Composite

3. Gutta percha

4. Glass ionomer

The correct answer is: Gutta percha

The primary material used in root canal procedures is gutta percha. Gutta percha is a biocompatible substance derived from the sap of the gutta-percha tree, and it is widely recognized for its effectiveness in filling and sealing the cleaned and shaped root canal spaces after the infected or damaged pulp has been removed. Its properties, such as adaptability, radiopacity, and resistance to moisture, make it an ideal choice for endodontic treatments, allowing for a long-lasting seal that helps prevent reinfection. Other materials, while beneficial for certain dental applications, are not suitable for use in root canal filling. Amalgam is typically used for filling cavities in teeth due to its durability, but it does not provide the flexibility or sealing ability needed for root canals. Composite materials are also favored for aesthetic restorations in visible areas but do not have the same properties as gutta percha in the context of canal filling. Glass ionomer is primarily used as a restorative material for its fluoride-releasing properties, but it does not possess the necessary characteristics for root canal therapy.