Surgical management of overfilled gutta-percha and root capping with mineral trioxide aggregate in a young patient

Overfilled gutta-percha (GP) can lead to failure of root canal treatment. Management of overfilled GP may require periradicular surgery with root end procedures. However, these procedures have drawbacks, particularly in a young patient. This article describes a case of periradicular cyst due to overfilled GP managed by periradicular surgery. Root capping at the apex was carried out with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) instead of root end procedures. MTA root capping promoted apical build up, sealing and periapical healing. Clinical Relevance To Interdisciplinary Dentistry The article describes a technique called "root capping" that can be carried out during periradicular surgery instead of root end procedures in a young patient. This technique is of clinical importance due to challenges encountered during endodontic treatment in permanent teeth of young patients such as thin dentinal walls. The need for periradicular surgery in the management of periapical lesions due to overfilled gutta-percha is emphasized.