Surgical Management of Overextending Gutta-Percha: A Case Report

Abstract This case report presents the surgical management of overextended gutta-percha in a 46-year-old female patient. The patient presented with symptomatic apical periodontitis in a previously treated tooth, which was diagnosed using clinical and radiographic examinations. After unsuccessful non-surgical retreatment, a surgical approach was taken, and the extruded gutta-percha was removed. The root end was prepared, and mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) was used as a root-end filling material. The patient showed uneventful healing of the respected area, and a porcelain jacket crown was placed on the tooth. This case report highlights the importance of accurate diagnosis and treatment planning, accurate working length determination, bio-mechanical preparation and accurate obturation of the canal in the management of overextended gutta-percha. The use of MTA as a root-end filling material and careful planning and execution in the surgical management of overextended gutta-percha are also emphasized.