obturate

Obturate is a verb meaning to obstruct, close off, or seal a passage by filling or blocking it with material. The term derives from Latin obturare, meaning to stuff up or block; the related noun obturation refers to the act or result of obturating.

In general use, obturate describes blocking an opening such as a canal or cavity, often to prevent the passage of liquids, gases, or pathogens. The term can apply in medical, dental, and technical contexts where sealing a passage is required.

In dentistry, obturation is a standard step in root canal therapy. After cleaning and shaping the root canal, a biocompatible filling material is inserted to seal the canal and entomb residual bacteria, preventing reinfection. Common obturation materials include gutta-percha in combination with a root canal sealer. Techniques for obturation include lateral condensation and warm vertical compaction, chosen based on tooth anatomy and clinician preference.

Although most readers encounter obturation in dental endodontics, the concept appears in other fields where sealing a passage or cavity is needed, such as construction or laboratory settings. The process emphasizes achieving a hermetic seal and preventing leakage.