Which item is NOT essential during an endodontic procedure?

In an endodontic procedure, the primary goal is to treat the interior of the tooth, especially the pulp and root canals. Each of the other items listed plays a crucial role in this process, whereas the radiograph developer does not comprise an essential part of the procedure itself.

A rubber dam is vital during endodontic treatments. It isolates the tooth from saliva and other contaminants, providing a clean working area and improving the visibility of the tooth structure.

Guttapercha is a material that is used to fill the cleaned and shaped canals of the tooth after the infection or necrotic tissue has been removed, making it a necessary component for sealing the root canal system.

Paper points are used to dry the canals after cleaning and shaping, as well as to absorb any remaining fluids before the permanent filling material (guttapercha) is placed.

In contrast, while a radiograph developer is important for processing X-ray films, it is not directly involved in the endodontic procedure itself. Its role is limited to imaging, which supports diagnosis and treatment planning but is not essential for executing the endodontic treatment. Thus, it is the correct choice for what is not essential during the procedure.