(TC27) Tackling Residual Gutta-Percha Frustration in Retreatments with Conservative and Effective Supplemental Techniques: Photo and Video Demonstration

Abstract: Retreatment is a standard practice in endodontics, serving to eradicate persistent infections and facilitate the healing of post-treatment diseases. The emergence of post-treatment diseases is predominantly attributed to bacterial contamination within the canal system, often obscured due to obstructed access or overlooked anatomical complexities during the initial treatment. Before achieving thorough disinfection and obturation of the canal system in retreatment, it is imperative to completely remove the previously placed obturation material. This step allows unhindered access for instruments and irrigants to reach the canal system, where bacteria persist. Despite notable advancements in endodontic technology streamlining the removal of bulk gutta-percha, the complete elimination of residual gutta-percha from canal walls remains a challenge. The objective of this table clinic is to illustrate the following safe and efficacious techniques using a combination of extracted and clear plastic teeth models: 1) irrigation with 70% ethanol following chloroform application; 2) RC-Prep^® with XP-3D^™ shaper instrumentation following chloroform application; and 3) Er, Cr:YSGG laser-activated irrigation. These techniques aim to assist clinicians in removing residual gutta-percha from the canal system. Presentation of these techniques will be accomplished by high-definition photographs and video demonstrations. By gaining knowledge of these supplemental techniques, the clinician will be able to achieve optimal disinfection and subsequently enhance the three-dimensional obturation of the root canal system, resulting in the improvement of the success of endodontic retreatment.