Post and Core in Endodontics

# In restoring an endodontically treated tooth for post core, an absolute minimum of apical fill of gutta percha to be left over to prevent leakage is:
A. 1 mm
B. 2 mm
C. 3 mm
D. 4 mm

The correct answer is D. 4mm

Since there is greater leakage when only 2-3 mm of Gutta-percha is present, 4-5 mm should be retained apically to ensure an adequate seal. Although studies indicate that 4 mm produce an adequate seal, stopping precisely at 4 mm is difficult, and radiographic angulation errors could lead to retention of less than 4 mm. Therefore, 5 mm of gutta-percha should be retained apically.