Orthodontics: pulpectomy in primary teeth: practice question

A Dentistry question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Dentistry · Orthodontics: pulpectomy in primary teeth

Sample item

A 5-year-old has a non-vital primary molar with a sinus tract and roots that are not extensively resorbed. Which root canal filling material is used?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

C. Resorbable zinc oxide eugenol paste

Pulpectomy in primary teeth requires a filling material that resorbs at a rate similar to the roots, so zinc oxide eugenol is the classic choice. Gutta-percha does not resorb and may deflect the succedaneous tooth.

Option by option

  • A. Amalgam

    Amalgam is a restorative metal.

  • B. Gutta-percha

    Gutta-percha is not resorbable and can interfere with eruption of the permanent tooth.

  • C. Resorbable zinc oxide eugenol paste (correct)

    Correct. ZOE resorbs with the root.

  • D. Silver points

    Silver points are not used in primary root fillings.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this Dentistry question

What is the answer to this Dentistry question?

The best answer is C, Resorbable zinc oxide eugenol paste. Pulpectomy in primary teeth requires a filling material that resorbs at a rate similar to the roots, so zinc oxide eugenol is the classic choice.

Why is "Amalgam" not the answer?

Amalgam is a restorative metal.

Why is "Gutta-percha" not the answer?

Gutta-percha is not resorbable and can interfere with eruption of the permanent tooth.

Why is "Silver points" not the answer?

Silver points are not used in primary root fillings.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Orthodontics: pulpectomy in primary teeth in Dentistry. Gutta-percha does not resorb and may deflect the succedaneous tooth.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Orthodontics: pulpectomy in primary teeth?

Learn the dental formula, eruption ages and tooth structure once, as tables. Then use the flashcards and the other Dentistry questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.