Use of Negative Apical Pressure Technique for Removal of Apically Extruded Gutta-percha Fragment

The aim of this case report was to present using negative apical pressure technique for removal of apically extruded gutta-percha during retreatment procedures. A 22 year-old female patient was referred to the clinic with severe pain, swelling, and tenderness to percussion and palpation in the tooth of #26. Periapical radiograph showed previous root canal treatment of tooth #26 with incomplete root canal fillings. During retreatment procedures gutta-percha apically extruded from mesial root canal. The patient was recalled after one day. At the second session, it was observed that the swelling was increased. One of the tips for calcium hydroxide paste application was adjusted to suction of dental unit. Tip was placed into the canal as deep as possible. After a few attempts, apically extruded gutta-percha was removed and the patient was recalled after one day. At one day from the fragment removal, the swelling was decreased. Calcium hydroxide paste was placed into the canals for one week. At the fourth session, the patient was asymptomatic and the treatment was completed at this session. Keywords: gutta-percha, negative apical pressure, retreatment