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Pulpitis — ORE Part 1 MCQ

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EasyEndodonticsPulpitisORE Part 1

A lower right first molar has been diagnosed with irreversible pulpitis and is planned for non-surgical root canal treatment. After access and initial canal negotiation, which method should be used to establish the working length?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: E — Electronic apex locator with a working-length periapical radiograph

Explanation lettering: E = shown as A · D = shown as C · C = shown as D · A = shown as E

A is correct. In UK endodontic practice, an electronic apex locator (EAL) is used to determine working length, with a working-length periapical radiograph providing confirmation of file position and useful anatomical information, such as canal curvature or an unexpected root configuration. A pre-operative radiograph is essential for planning but cannot accurately establish the definitive working length because it is a two-dimensional image and does not show the apical constriction. Radiography alone is less reliable for locating the apical terminus, whereas an EAL alone does not provide the radiographic assessment required during treatment. Published average canal lengths are only rough estimates and must never replace patient-specific measurement.

Reference: British Endodontic Society. The British Endodontic Society Guide to Good Endodontic Practice, 2022. https://www.rcseng.ac.uk/-/media/FDS/The-British-Endodontic-Society-guide-to-Good-Endodontic-Practice.pdf