National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) Practice Exam

Which of the following is true about mechanical debridement in RCT?

1. It is solely reliant on chemical disinfection

2. Files are used to prepare the canal

3. It is performed only after obturation

4. It is not necessary for successful root canal treatment

The correct answer is: Files are used to prepare the canal

Mechanical debridement in root canal therapy (RCT) is a crucial step in effectively cleaning and shaping the root canal system. The correct answer highlights the use of files in this process, which are specifically designed instruments that facilitate the removal of necrotic pulp tissue, debris, and bacteria from within the canal. This mechanical action allows for the proper shaping of the canal to ensure that it can be adequately disinfected and sealed during further treatment steps. Using files not only cleans the canal walls but also enlarges the canal space, making it possible for the dentist to achieve better access during the chemical disinfection stage. This preparation is essential for the success of RCT, as it helps ensure that the obturation materials can effectively fill the canal and prevent future infection. In contrast, the other statements do not accurately reflect the principles of mechanical debridement. Sole reliance on chemical disinfection neglects the importance of physical removal of debris and the structure shaping capacity provided by mechanical debridement. Additionally, performing debridement only after obturation is not feasible, as effective cleaning must precede the sealing of the canal. Lastly, while some may think that debridement isn't crucial, neglecting it significantly increases the risk of treatment failure, reinforcing that it