Which instrument is used to compact gutta-percha inside the canal during obturation?

• A. Finger spreader
• B. Rotary paste-filler
• C. Apex locator
• D. Root canal pluggers/spreaders

Answer: (D)

Obturation relies on dense compaction of gutta-percha inside the canal to seal it effectively. Instruments designed to achieve this are root canal pluggers and spreaders. A plugger is used for vertical or vertical-like condensation, pushing gutta-percha apically to fill irregularities, while a spreader helps with lateral condensation and creates space for additional cones. The finger spreader is one example of a spreader used in this phase. Other tools mentioned have different roles: rotary paste-fillers are for paste-based systems rather than compacting the gutta-percha, and an apex locator is used to determine working length, not for obturation. So the instrument family that directly accomplishes compacting gutta-percha inside the canal is root canal pluggers/spreaders.