The management of thermomechanically compacted gutta percha extrusion in the inferior dental canal

Endodontic material inadvertently forced into the inferior dental canal during root-canal therapy can cause damage to the underlying nerve. The effect of toxic filling materials on nervous tissues has been well publicised, however, the thermal and pressure changes produced by chemically bland materials has not been adequately highlighted. In the case reported, thermoplasticised gutta percha was inadvertently introduced into the canal during endodontic treatment of a lower molar. Factors affecting the outcome are discussed and guidelines are presented for the management of such a case with reference to surgery against observation.