SIGNIFICANCE OF APICAL PATENCY IN ENDODONTICS. A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Chein Shee Antoinette Yen, Kashmira Sawant, Dr. Ajinkya M. Pawar* and Dr. Kulvinder Singh Banga

ABSTRACT

The apical portion of root canal is the most complex part of tooth anatomy. To negotiate the root canal the most common method used is apical patency. Gaining apical patency means that a small flexible K-file which is passively moved through the apical constriction 0.5-1mm beyond the minor diameter without widening it. This process involves the use of a small diameter file that is set 1mm longer than the working length and recapitulated after each instrument to prevent packing of debris in the apical part. The prominence of micro-organisms in pulpal and periapical diseases is notable and the anaerobic bacteria are recognised as important pathogens. With advances in apical patency all techniques have its own advantages and limitation so it is important to use the technique judiciously and minimize trauma to periapical tissue and respect the root apical anatomy. This article weighs the pros and cons of apical patency and its clinical significance along with its need.

Keywords: Apical patency, apical seal, periradicular diseases, recapitulation , working length.