A nonsurgical technique for the removal of overextended gutta-percha.

AIM The present report describes and discusses a nonsurgical technique for the removal of overextended gutta-percha. BACKGROUND Mechanical irritation results from overextension and the overextended material used during root canal obturation could produce an inflammatory reaction with an area of rarefaction in the periapical tissues. The healing process is not affected by the presence of filling materials as it is well tolerate by the periapical tissues, but it is accepted that a higher failure rate is found in overfilled teeth. CASE REPORT This clinical report describes one case with an overextended gutta-percha cone and a new nonsurgical technique to remove this material. CONCLUSION The technique described is a conservative, safe and plausible option to remove extruded gutta-percha in periapical area. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE Overextended gutta-percha cones could increase the failure of endodontic therapy. Commonly surgical procedures are indicated to remove this overextended material, but this nonsurgical technique could be a better treatment alternative and could increase the chances of success.