Question

A retrofilling is indicated for which of the following conditions?

A. Maxillary central incisor with an inadequate single cone root canal filling (RCF) and a 9 mm. diameter radiolucency at the apex. The crown has a simple composite restoration.

B. Maxillary lateral incisor with a well-condensed RCF which has caused postoperative pain and swelling for 14 days. The tooth was asymptomatic prior to root canal filling.

C. Maxillary premolar with a post and coping restoration with the facial RCF 4 mm. short of the apex which has a 2 x 3 mm. radiolucency. The lingual RCF is adequate and its apex appears normal.
D. None of the above

Answer 1

Maxillary central incisor with an inadequate single cone root canal filling (RCF) and a 9 mm. diameter radiolucency at the apex. The crown has a simple composite restoration.thereforew A). is correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

A retrofilling, or apicoectomy, is indicated when there is persistent infection or inadequate root canal filling. In this case (Option A), the maxillary central incisor has an inadequate single cone root canal filling and a 9 mm radiolucency at the apex, indicating an unresolved issue. The presence of a simple composite restoration on the crown suggests that retreatment through retrofilling would be an appropriate approach. Retrofilling involves the removal of the apical portion of the tooth's root, the placement of a biocompatible material, and sealing the end to prevent further infection.

In contrast, Option B describes postoperative pain and swelling after a well-condensed root canal filling. This suggests a different issue, possibly related to the canal filling procedure itself rather than the need for a retrofill. Option C involves a premolar with a post and coping restoration, where the facial root canal filling is short of the apex. The presence of a 2 x 3 mm radiolucency indicates pathology but doesn't necessarily warrant a retrofill, as other endodontic procedures might be more appropriate.