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Laurence Bohan
Content Writer
Laurence Bohan
Content Writer

Laurence is a copywriter and trained journalist. His passion is creating insightful and educational content for dental professionals of every level. Outside of work, he enjoys watching sport, quizzing and spending time with his family.

Endodontic Files Buying Guide

The three main uses of an endodontic file are to remove diseased pulp tissue in the canal, shave dentine from the canal space and to shape the canal so that it can be filled properly. Coming in a variety of different materials, designs and sizes, our guide aims to make it easier for you to identify the best endodontic systems for your root canal treatments.

Endodontic File Types

The three most widely used types of endodontic files are NiTi (nickel-titanium) files, K-files and H-files (Hedstrom).

  • K-files and H-files are stainless-steel hand files. They are typically used to locate canals and create a glide path. They are generally used prior to rotary files.
    • K-files have a twisted square shape and are used in a reciprocating clockwise-counterclockwise motion.
    • Hedstrom files have a spiral cone shape and only cut in retraction when the file is pulled outwards.
  • NiTi is the most popular alloy used today in endodontics. NiTi files can be used within rotary systems or manually for fine control. Over recent years, NiTi files have become the preferred choice of file for many dentists due to the superior flexibility provided.
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Endodontic File Taper Explained

An endodontic file’s taper indicates how much thicker in diameter the file gets for each 1mm you go down from the tip of the file. Tapers are the cutting points along the file.

Stainless steel endo files, such as K-files and H-files, have a pre-set taper of .02 (mm). NiTi files have a taper of either .04 or .06.

The taper of an endodontic file can be used to work out the diameter of the file at any working point. For example, to work out the diameter of the final cutting flute of a particular file, which is always 16mm down from tip, the following equation for a .04 taper size 30 file could be used- 0.3mm + (16 x 0.04mm) = 0.94mm.

Compatibility and Convenience

It is important to ensure that your new endo files are compatible with your existing handpieces. You will tend to find that newer generation NiTi files are compatible with most systems. EdgeEndo Fire files, for example, work with the same handpieces operated at the WaveOne Gold parameter.

The best files will also be compatible with the most popular and mainstream endodontic techniques to ensure a seamless transition over from another system. EdgeEndo and WaveOne files are both designed to be used in a similar technique and file sequence, explained in the video.

Convenience can also be found by purchasing assorted packs containing all the file sizes likely to be required for a single procedure.

Type of Cut and Cross-section

Different endodontic files have different cross-sections and tip designs.

  • ProTaper files have a convex, triangular cross-section, designed to enhance the cutting action while decreasing the rotational friction between the blade of the file and dentine.
  • EdgeTaper files have a similar convex triangular cross-section and a non-cutting tip aimed at maximising cutting efficiency.

A non-cutting tip allows for each file to safely follow the secured portion of a canal. Files with cutting tips are more aggressive at their leading edge and therefore need to be used more carefully in the depths of the canal.

Reputation

Endodontics systems that have been on the market for some time with a proven track record can provide that extra bit of confidence for dentists. The EdgeEndo website has an entire hub dedicated to testimonials from various doctors and professors.

Silicone Stops

The use of silicone endo stops aid in establishing canal depth and working length of each file. Files that come with pre-inserted stops, such as Supreme Endo K-Files, are more convenient in that they can save time for the dentist or endodontist.

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Talk to Our Expert

For help finding the endodontic files and accessories, speak to Mark our endo specialist on 01634 877479.

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Endodontic File Sizes & Colours

Endodontic files have a universal handle colour scheme and are available in three different lengths of 21mm, 25mm and 31mm. The extra length is non-cutting shaft and is useful for posterior teeth where access and visibility is impaired.

Often categorised as small, primary, medium or large, endo file sizes range from 15 (0.15mm tip diameter) to 80 (0.8mm tip diameter). Below is a list of all endodontic file sizes and their corresponding handle colours according to ISO.

Endodontic file sizes & colours