Subject Hub
Endodontics
Pulp biology, diagnosis, root canal therapy, irrigation, obturation, and managing RCT failure — structured for OSCE, viva, and board exams.
What examiners focus on
- Pulp diagnosis — reversible vs irreversible pulpitis, necrosis, and acute apical abscess
- Indications and contraindications for RCT vs extraction
- Working length determination and canal preparation sequence
- Irrigation protocols — NaOCl concentration, EDTA, activation methods
- Obturation techniques and sealer selection
- RCT failure — causes, diagnosis, and retreatment vs apicectomy decision
- Emergency endodontic management and pulp capping criteria
5 tips for endodontics exams
- Always classify the pulp AND periapical diagnosis separately — examiners mark both.
- Know your irrigation sequence cold: concentration, volume, contact time, and activation.
- For vivas, explain why RCT failed before jumping to the retreatment plan.
- Emergency endo questions test your triage — pain relief first, definitive treatment second.
- Mention the rubber dam in every RCT answer — skipping it is an automatic red flag for examiners.
Study articles
Endodontic Diagnosis Simplified
Pulp and periapical classification with clinical tests and diagnostic flowcharts.
RCT Failure: Diagnosis, Causes & Management
Why root canals fail, how to identify it, and the retreatment vs surgery decision.
Irrigation Protocols Exam Summary
NaOCl, EDTA, CHX — concentrations, sequences, and activation techniques for exams.