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Table 1 Definition of procedural endodontic terminology used in our study

From: Assessment of dental students’ knowledge and performance of master gutta-percha cone selection and fitting during root canal treatment: a pilot study

Term

Definition

Master GP cone

The largest gutta-percha cone that can be placed either to full working

length or to within a short distance of working length (0.5 mm or less), of the completely prepared root canal prior to obturation [20].

Tug-back

Slight frictional resistance of a master point to withdrawal when seated; indicates a relative degree of adaptation, at least in two dimensions [20].

• Assessed by pulling the cone and feeling resistance to the displacement in the coronal direction.

Apical stop

The matrix of dentin or other materials at the apical end of a root canal preparation that prevents further advancement or progression of both endodontic instruments and obturation materials [20].

• Assessed by pushing the cone and feeling resistance to the extrusion in the apical direction.

Reference point

The point on the occlusal or incisal tooth surface from which measurements are made

Ill-fitting cone

Either short (more than 2 mm from the apical foramen) or over-extended (extends beyond the apical foramen)

Master apical cone radiograph

Radiograph taken to confirm the length of the selected cone

Final radiograph

Radiograph taken postoperatively to evaluate the quality of the obturation