Which instrument is used to dry the canal after instrumentation?

• A. Gutta-percha points
• B. Paper points
• C. Irrigation needle
• D. Rotary files

Answer: (B)

Drying the canal after instrumentation is essential to achieve a proper seal during obturation. Paper points are sterile, absorbent strips of paper that are inserted into the canal to wick moisture away from the canal walls and dentinal tubules. They are used in sequence, matching the canal size, and left in place briefly to absorb moisture before being removed and checked. When the canal is dry, the point withdrawn will be dry, indicating readiness for obturation. Gutta-percha points are used to fill the canal, not dry it; an irrigation needle delivers irrigant to flush debris, but it doesn’t reliably dry the canal; rotary files are used to shape and enlarge the canal, not for drying.