Which action describes filling the canal with paste during obturation?

• A. Condense GP against wall to eliminate gaps
• B. Root canal pluggers/spreaders
• C. Fill canal with paste
• D. Articulating paper

Answer: (C)

Obturation aims to seal the entire root canal system to prevent microleakage. A paste sealer is applied inside the canal to coat the dentin walls and fill irregularities, creating a uniform film that helps establish a seal before the filling material is placed. Describing the canal as being filled with paste corresponds to this step of applying the sealer paste into the canal so it can coat surfaces and fill spaces, after which the gutta-percha is compacted to occupy the rest of the space. The other actions involve compacting gutta-percha, using tools to condense it, or checking occlusion with articulating paper, which are related to other parts of obturation but not the paste-filling step.