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What is the purpose of a root canal sealer?

  1. Cement used with gutta percha to seal the pulp canal

  2. An adhesive for bonding crowns

  3. A material for filling cavities

  4. A temporary seal for tooth sensitivity

The correct answer is: Cement used with gutta percha to seal the pulp canal

A root canal sealer serves a crucial role in endodontic therapy, specifically designed to fill the spaces and seal the pulp canal after the removal of infected or damaged pulp tissue. Its primary purpose is to create a hermetic seal when used in conjunction with gutta percha, which is the main material used to fill the canal after cleaning and shaping. This sealing process is vital to prevent reinfection from bacteria and to ensure the long-term success of the root canal treatment. In this context, the other options do not align with the specific function of a root canal sealer. An adhesive for bonding crowns focuses on attaching crowns to the tooth structure rather than sealing the canals. A cavity filling material addresses the needs of carious lesions or holes in tooth structure, which is unrelated to the root canal procedure. A temporary seal for tooth sensitivity is meant to provide short-term relief or cover for exposed areas but does not provide the necessary sealing and protection required after a root canal treatment.