Which of the following is an example of endodontic treatment?

• A. Crown placement
• B. Tooth extraction
• C. Root canal
• D. Gum graft

Answer: (C)

Endodontic treatment focuses on the inside of the tooth, particularly the pulp and the root canal system. The classic example is a root canal, where diseased or inflamed pulp is removed, the canals are cleaned and shaped, the area is disinfected, and the space is sealed to protect the tooth. This approach aims to save the natural tooth rather than extract it.

Crown placement is a restorative procedure used after decay or damage to cover and protect a tooth; it may follow endodontic therapy but is not itself an endodontic treatment. Gum graft is a periodontal procedure addressing gum tissue, not the tooth’s interior. Tooth extraction involves removing the entire tooth, which is outside the scope of endodontics.